July 12, Colombo (LNW): The Environment Ministry has highlighted the growing importance of urban forests in helping cities adapt to the challenges of climate change, describing them as an essential part of creating healthier, safer and more sustainable urban environments.
According to the Ministry, trees in urban areas do far more than provide shade. They help reduce temperatures during periods of extreme heat, improve air quality by filtering pollutants, lessen the risk of flooding through better water absorption and contribute to the physical and mental wellbeing of residents.
Officials also noted that greener cities can support local economies by enhancing public spaces and making urban areas more attractive for investment and tourism.
The Ministry stressed that establishing resilient urban forests requires a long-term commitment rather than isolated tree-planting campaigns. It said adequate investment, careful planning and consistent policy implementation are all necessary to ensure these green spaces continue to deliver environmental and social benefits for future generations.
With climate-related risks becoming more frequent and severe, the Ministry said urban forests are now widely regarded as vital infrastructure that strengthens the resilience of cities while supporting sustainable development. It added that integrating green spaces into urban planning will play an increasingly important role in protecting communities from the effects of rising temperatures and extreme weather.