Our tree canopies are vitally important in mitigating the impacts of global warming. Yet, we are losing 1-1.5% of our tree canopies in our suburbs each year. Tree canopies help cool our cities and suburbs by providing shade, minimising the urban heat island effect. 

Studies predict that Victoria will start seeing 50-degree days in the coming decades. Victoria needs to be developing plans for mitigation and this must include changes to our planning legislation to protect our tree canopies. 

Without the shade provided by our tree canopies, buildings and pavements will freely absorb and radiate heat, increasing air temperatures. On 50-degree days this will be deadly. 

Now is the time for increased investment in our tree canopy coverage and a review of planning laws to future proof our streets.