A person wearing a gray sweater and green backpack stands amidst lush greenery, gazing upward towards the sunny sky.
A child and adult kneel together, planting a young tree in lush green grass under sunlight, showcasing a nurturing gardening moment.

About the report

The Canopy Report was developed in collaboration with survey experts at The Harris Poll. It is the only annual report of its kind to explore people's perceptions of trees and the role they play in our lives.

In 2025, we surveyed 2,025 U.S. adults (18+) across the country. By polling people from different backgrounds, experiences, and geographical locations, we gain nationally representative data illustrating how many Americans feel about trees and a greener future.

Key Findings

95%

of Americans find value in trees.

73%

of Americans wish their neighborhood had more trees.​

40%

said they would plant trees in their yard if they knew more about tree planting.

61%

of Americans have experienced a natural disaster in the past 12 months.

1 in 2

shoppers seek out information about a company’s environmental commitments before buying.

Report Snapshot

Key themes from the 2025 report include:

A parent walks hand-in-hand with two children along a tree-lined street, surrounded by greenery and parked cars.

Trees & Health

Many Americans believe life is better with trees and report increased mental and physical benefits from time outside. 

  • 95% of Americans find value in trees.
  • 95% of people engage in outdoor activities around trees.
  • 87% of Americans say trees and green spaces have a noticeable impact on their mental well-being.
  • 79% of Americans say, “being among trees is my happy place.”
Two children, a boy and a girl, run hand-in-hand across a sunny green field, surrounded by trees and a glowing sunset.

Green Access

People crave proximity to trees, but easy access to green spaces remains a challenge for some. 

  • 50% of Americans need to drive to the nearest park or natural green area.
  • 73% wish their neighborhood had more trees.
  • 91% of Americans believe cities should be built with trees and green spaces in mind.
A woman and a child carrying a bag of soil to plant trees in a neighborhood.

Tree Planting

Many Americans feel confident about tree maintenance, but sometimes lack knowledge when it comes to tree planting.

  • 72% of people said they know how to take care of the trees in their yard.
  • Fewer than 1 in 5 Americans report having planted a tree last year.
  • 40% said they would plant if they knew more about tree planting.
Debris and rubble covering a large area after a tornado, with remains of destroyed homes and vehicles. Overcast sky adds to the somber mood.

Natural Disasters

More Americans report experiencing natural disasters, and many have noticed impacts to local tree canopy, too.

  • 61% of Americans have experienced a natural disaster in the past 12 months (with excessive heat leading the way).
  • 62% have noticed significant changes to tree coverage where they live.
  • 86% say right now is a critical time to replant our forests.
A diverse group of people gathers outdoors for a gardening activity, wearing casual clothing. The atmosphere is collaborative and lively, with trees in the background.

Green Leadership

Even though a majority of Americans believe their eco-conscious actions can make a difference, they still look to businesses to play an important role in a greener future, too.

  • 85% of Americans think businesses should actively plant trees or support reforestation.

  • 1 in 2 shoppers seek out information about a company’s environmental commitments before buying.

  • 62% believe businesses should be key players in shaping a greener future.

  • 77% of Americans are more likely to support a business that’s reducing or offsetting its carbon footprint.

Canopy Report: How America Sees Trees

Get the Full Report

In 2025, trees are widely recognized by Americans as vital pillars of the environment and community resilience. Download a copy of the report to see how this love of trees and green spaces shapes our opinions and action toward disaster recovery, community building, and urban planting efforts.

With every report download, the Arbor Day Foundation will plant a tree in a forest of need.

Questions?

For media inquiries or report questions, please contact Jeff Salem at [email protected].