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Trees Viewed as Key to Environmental Challenges
A new national survey reveals strong public belief in the role of trees to protect, restore, and strengthen communities.
August 28, 2025
Extreme weather is no longer an anomaly in the U.S. It’s reshaping daily life for many Americans, from record heat to damaging storms and floods.
That’s one of the key findings of the 2025 Canopy Report, a nationwide survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the Arbor Day Foundation. Polling more than 2,000 U.S. adults, the report reveals widespread belief in the power of trees to strengthen communities facing environmental threats.
The data underscores a growing public understanding of what science has long shown: Trees are a critical, nature-based solution. They cool neighborhoods, absorb stormwater, improve air quality, and help restore the environment after disasters.
TREES ARE ON THE FRONT LINES OF NATURAL DISASTERS
Americans aren’t just reading headlines about extreme weather — they’re living it. In the past 12 months alone, 61% of Americans say they’ve experienced a natural disaster firsthand, and 62% report noticing significant changes to tree coverage where they live. From hurricanes and wildfires to record-breaking heat, these events are reshaping communities.
But even in the face of destruction, people see trees as part of the solution. An overwhelming 90% believe replanting trees is a vital step in helping communities recover from natural disasters. The same percentage believe increasing tree coverage in cities will help cool temperatures and provide much-needed shade.
And the confidence doesn’t stop there:
86%
say stronger trees in high-wind areas can help reduce storm damage and erosion.
83%
believe trees in coastal areas can help absorb storm surges and mitigate flooding risks.
Across the board, Americans see trees as essential infrastructure in a changing world — protecting both people and places.
TREES ARE GOOD FOR OUR HEALTH — AND BRING US HOPE
Trees don’t just make our cities safer, they also make us feel better. Nearly 9 in 10 Americans say that spending time around trees and green spaces improves their mental well-being. In fact, 79% say simply being among trees is their “happy place.”
This connection runs deep.
Whether it’s a quiet walk in the park or time spent under the shade of a favorite backyard tree, Americans are finding peace and purpose in green spaces.
WE LOVE TREES, BUT MANY OF US NEED HELP PLANTING THEM
Despite their appreciation for trees, many Americans don’t feel equipped to plant them. While 72% say they’re confident in maintaining trees once they’re in the ground, fewer than 1 in 5 planted a tree last year.
What’s holding people back? Knowledge.
40%
said they’d be more likely to plant a tree if they had more information.
85%
of those who haven’t planted cite at least one factor that would help, like knowing what kind of tree to plant, assurance that it won’t damage property, or receiving free resources from their city.
The good news? People want to be part of the solution. They just need the right tools and resources to take that first step.
AMERICANS CRAVE MORE ACCESS TO NATURE
For many Americans, the real challenge isn’t understanding the value of trees, it’s getting access to them. Notably, half of U.S. adults report needing to drive to the nearest park or green space. And nearly three-quarters (73%) say they wish their neighborhood had more trees.
But the desire for greener, more livable spaces is clear:
91%
believe cities should be built with trees and green spaces in mind.
90%
agree that trees help make neighborhoods more livable.
From rural towns to city blocks, Americans want to see — and feel — the benefits of trees close to home. We’re all united in the belief that we can create a better future through trees.
To view the full report, visit arborday.org/canopyreport, and for every download the Arbor Day Foundation will plant a tree in a forest of greatest need.
