CANOPY BLOG

Urban Tree Advocacy at the 2022 Thrive Alliance Climate Summit

By Canopy Team on November 1, 2022

Mayor Betsy Nash, Canopy Executive Director Catherine Martineau, and Councilmember Cecilia Taylor plant a ceremonial tree in Menlo Park to celebrate California Arbor Week 2022.

In early October 2022, Canopy staff members joined local community partners and advocates at the Climate Summit for San Mateo County hosted by Thrive Alliance, Climate Resilient Communities, Nuestra Casa, and Rise South City. This cross-sector summit focused on the critical issues affecting frontline communities in San Mateo County and included government officials, Stanford researchers, other community-based organizations, policymakers, and community members.

The summit presented a collective commitment to equitable climate adaptation by adhering to three core principles: (1) preparing and protecting frontline communities, (2) prioritizing nature-based solutions, and (3) promoting community resilience.

It was heartening to hear several speakers highlight urban forestry action as a key component, including mentions of Canopy’s advocacy initiatives. This focus on urban forestry mirrors a growing national awareness of the importance of trees, and also speaks to the success of local efforts by Canopy’s advocacy staff, committee members, and partners.

Watch the keynote speech by Menlo Park Councilmember Cecilia Taylor below, a highlight of the summit, including a mention of urban forestry’s impact from minutes 42 – 45.

Our gratitude to Thrive Alliance and its organizing partners for a truly inspiring event!