Green light for tree partnership

GEELONG has become the first Victorian city to join a United Nations-backed green cities initiative.

The City of Greater Geelong applied earlier this year to become part of the Tree Cities of the World network, managed by US non-profit Arbor Day Foundation and the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation, which encourages cities to plant, nurture and celebrate trees.

The deal means the city is obliged to enforce official policies to govern tree management, allocate financial resources to implement its plan and host an annual “celebration of trees” to raise awareness among residents.

The city applied for the commendation earlier this year and indicated it would support its sustainability initiatives and connect to a global network to strengthen its partnerships in the space.

Geelong is one of nine cities in Australia to form the network, and around 170 worldwide.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the recognition validated the city’s strategic direction regarding its tree coverage.

“This solidifies our commitment to making Greater Geelong a greener place,” Cr Sullivan said.

“As a community, it is wonderful to demonstrate our commitment to protecting and enhancing our green canopy and we celebrate this accolade.”

Environment and circular economy chair Peter Murrihy said the agreement will support the city’s existing plan.

“Being part of this select group of cities from around the world will allow us to share ideas and insights that will ensure we continue to see our trees and forests flourish,” Cr Murrihy said.

The city indicated it presently has about 14 per cent tree canopy coverage across the municipality, a figure it aimed to increase to 25 per cent in coming years.