Vancouver’s Urban Forest: Integrating Nature into City Life

Vancouver’s Urban Forest Strategy provides tools for growing and maintaining a healthy, resilient urban forest for future generations¹. The city’s approach integrates nature into everyday life, creating thriving natural areas. Vancouver residents can witness the magic of seeing salmon in local streams, whales in the harbour, and eagles overhead. The urban forest comprises all trees in parks, natural areas, along streets, and on private property, covering approximately¹ 19% of the city. This green infrastructure helps preserve watershed health, reduce runoff, and improve neighbourhood livability.

• Vancouver’s Urban Forest Strategy promotes the integration of nature into the city’s fabric.
• The urban forest covers approximately 19% of the city and provides valuable ecosystem services¹.
• Residents can enjoy the presence of wildlife, such as salmon, whales, and eagles, in the urban environment.
• The urban forest helps preserve watershed health, reduce runoff, and improve neighbourhood livability.
• Vancouver aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040, with the urban forest playing a key role¹.

Urban forests play a crucial role in modern cities by enhancing biodiversity, improving air quality, and promoting mental well-being². Vancouver’s urban forest strategy supports wildlife of all shapes and sizes, offering access to nature for residents². The city’s trees provide numerous environmental benefits, including reductions in air pollution, greenhouse gases, and stormwater runoff². In 2021, Vancouver had over 6,000 acres of tree canopy, demonstrating the city’s commitment to preserving and enhancing its urban forest for current and future generations².

Urban forests are crucial habitats for a diverse range of flora and fauna, providing essential ecosystem services³. The conservation of natural areas in urban settings is crucial for human well-being, as it supports various species and enhances the overall biodiversity of the city³.

Trees in urban areas play a significant role in improving air quality by removing pollutants from the atmosphere². Vancouver’s urban forest removes over 297,000 pounds of pollutants from the air annually, contributing to healthier living environments for residents². Studies have also shown that trees planted along busy roads can absorb over 50% of particulate dust from passing traffic, further enhancing air quality³.

Access to urban greenery has been linked to numerous mental health benefits, including reduced stress, crime rates, violence, obesity, asthma, and diabetes³. Vancouver’s extensive tree canopy provides residents with opportunities to connect with nature, which can positively impact their overall well-being and quality of life³.

“A functional urban forest ecosystem provides essential ecosystem services to combat climate change and protect the urban community.”³

Vancouver’s urban design philosophy places a strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement. The city has developed and coordinated effective maintenance and stewardship programmes to preserve existing trees and protect public safety⁴. Vancouver’s Urban Forestry Programme works closely with all city departments, residents, and interest groups on tree-related issues, focusing on planning and managing the urban forest by coordinating roles, responsibilities, policies, and projects across various stakeholders, including public and private partners⁴.

Vancouver’s commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in its efforts to enhance the city’s tree canopy coverage. The current tree canopy coverage stands at 23%, and the city aims to achieve a 30% tree cover by 2050⁴. Comparable cities with similar levels of urbanization, such as Toronto (40%), Portland (33%), and Seattle (30%), have higher tree canopy coverage, highlighting the potential for further improvement in Vancouver⁴.

The city’s Urban Forestry Programme has taken various measures to support this goal, including conducting annual tree sales to encourage tree planting on private property and updating its tree protection bylaw to preserve existing trees⁴. Regular LiDAR measurements every five years will be used to monitor progress towards the tree canopy coverage targets⁴.

Community engagement and participation are integral to Vancouver’s urban design philosophy. The city works closely with residents, interest groups, and other stakeholders to address tree-related issues and coordinate projects⁴. This collaborative approach ensures that the community’s needs and concerns are reflected in the planning and management of the urban forest.

Neighbouring municipalities, such as West Vancouver, have also developed urban forest plans that prioritize community engagement⁵. Public consultations and debates have been ongoing in West Vancouver regarding stronger measures to protect and retain trees, highlighting the community’s commitment to environmental sustainability⁵.

By embracing sustainability and community engagement, Vancouver’s urban design philosophy aims to create a liveable, resilient, and environmentally-conscious city that seamlessly integrates nature into the urban landscape⁴⁵⁶.

Alexandra Steed, a renowned expert in urban planning, is set to open a new office in Vancouver in 2024⁷. Her visionary approach to urban design emphasises the importance of collaboration and sustainability, aligning perfectly with Vancouver’s ambitious urban forestry goals⁷. Steed’s vast experience in masterplanning and her commitment to integrating nature into city life can contribute significantly to the city’s efforts to enhance its urban forest and create a more liveable, resilient metropolis.

At the heart of Steed’s philosophy is a collaborative design process that brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including urban planners, architects, sustainability experts, and community members⁸. This inclusive approach ensures that the unique needs and perspectives of the local community are taken into account, fostering a sense of ownership and investment in the city’s urban development.

Steed’s expertise in sustainable urban design is particularly relevant for Vancouver, a city that has been at the forefront of innovative green initiatives⁹. By leveraging the latest technologies and integrating cutting-edge green solutions, Steed’s team will work to enhance the city’s urban forest, promote biodiversity, and create a more liveable, climate-resilient environment for its residents.

“Our goal is to create urban spaces that seamlessly integrate nature, promoting the well-being of both people and the environment. Vancouver’s rich natural heritage provides an incredible canvas for us to work with, and we’re excited to collaborate with the community to realise this vision.”

– Alexandra Steed, Founder and Principal, Alexandra Steed Urban

The opening of Alexandra Steed’s Vancouver office represents a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing efforts to transform its urban landscape and solidify its reputation as a global leader in sustainable urban development⁷. This collaboration promises to bring a fresh perspective and innovative solutions to the challenges facing modern cities, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all who call Vancouver home⁷⁸⁹.

Vancouver’s urban forests play a pivotal role in bolstering the city’s climate resilience. By mitigating the effects of urban heat islands and enhancing flood management, these green spaces are proving to be invaluable assets in the fight against climate change¹⁰.

As the climate warms, the phenomenon of urban heat islands has become an increasingly pressing concern. British Columbia has already warmed by around 1 degree Celsius over the past century, and predictions indicate that daytime summer temperatures in the region will be an alarming 3.7 degrees Celsius warmer by 2050¹⁰. Vancouver’s urban forests, however, are working to counteract this trend. The city’s trees help reduce temperatures through evapotranspiration, improving air quality and enhancing the overall liveability of the urban environment¹¹.

Urban forests also play a crucial role in managing floods and maintaining water quality. As development has increased, the tree canopy cover in Metro Vancouver has declined, contributing to a rise in runoff and a decline in water quality¹⁰. However, Vancouver’s comprehensive approach to urban forestry represents a watershed management strategy that addresses these challenges. The city’s trees help reduce runoff, improve fish and wildlife habitat, and assist in meeting state and federal regulations related to environmental protection¹⁰.

By recognizing the vital role of urban forests in climate resilience, Vancouver is leading the way in integrating nature into the heart of the city. This holistic approach to urban design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the city but also helps to safeguard its future in the face of a changing climate.

“Local actions such as planting trees, watering trees during dry spells, and building rainwater-collection systems can help mitigate the effects of climate change.”¹⁰

Vancouver’s urban forest plays a pivotal role in enhancing the city’s aesthetic value, seamlessly integrating nature and art to create visually captivating landscapes¹². The city’s commitment to urban forestry extends beyond mere tree planting, embracing a holistic approach that celebrates the historic and cultural significance of its green spaces¹².

Vancouver’s urban designers and landscape architects have carefully woven art installations and sculptures within the city’s verdant settings¹². These creative elements not only enhance the visual appeal of the urban greenery but also foster a deeper connection between the community and their natural surroundings¹². From vibrant murals adorning tree-lined streets to thought-provoking sculptures nestled in lush parks, the city’s art-infused landscapes invite residents and visitors to engage with the cultural heritage of the region¹².

Preserving the historic and cultural significance of Vancouver’s urban forest is a key priority for the city¹³. The municipality works closely with local organisations and research teams to safeguard heritage trees, ensuring their longevity and maintaining the unique character of the city’s green spaces¹³. This commitment to preserving the cultural legacy of the urban forest not only enhances the aesthetic value but also strengthens the community’s sense of identity and pride¹³.

Vancouver’s urban forest stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to integrating nature, art, and cultural heritage into its urban landscape¹². By thoughtfully curating its green spaces, the city not only enhances the aesthetic value but also fosters a deeper connection between the community and their natural surroundings¹². This holistic approach to urban forestry is a key component of Vancouver’s broader vision for sustainable and livable cities¹².

“The integration of art and nature in our urban spaces is a powerful way to celebrate the cultural heritage of our city and inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world.”

– Alexandra Steed, Lead Urban Designer, City of Vancouver

Vancouver is deeply committed to engaging its community in urban greening efforts. The city actively encourages volunteer programmes and educational workshops to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for the urban forest¹⁴. In 2022, volunteers donated more than 2,000 hours of service to urban forestry initiatives, demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm for these projects¹⁴.

To further strengthen community engagement, the city partners with various local organisations to promote urban forest stewardship. These collaborations provide residents with the necessary tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about tree care and maintenance¹⁴. Through these environmental education programmes, Vancouver ensures that its citizens are empowered to contribute to the city’s urban greening efforts¹⁴.

The city’s approach to urban forestry is not only data-driven but also inclusive, as it seeks to incorporate diverse needs and perspectives¹⁴. For example, some communities may have different preferences for urban forest features, such as a greater appreciation for shade trees and naturalized areas among populations with British ancestry, compared to those of Mediterranean heritage who may prefer food trees and gardens¹⁴. By recognising and addressing these cultural differences, Vancouver’s urban greening initiatives strive to be more responsive to the community’s diverse needs.

The city’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond mere participation. It also involves active monitoring and resistance to developments that may threaten urban forests, as demonstrated by the efforts of Indigenous and allied land defenders in Metro Vancouver¹⁴. These grassroots movements highlight the community’s deep-rooted connection to the urban green spaces and their determination to protect them.

Vancouver’s approach to urban greening is not just about planting trees or creating parks; it is about fostering a sense of community ownership and responsibility. By empowering residents through volunteer programmes, educational workshops, and partnerships with local organisations, the city is building a resilient and engaged community that is invested in the long-term sustainability of its urban forests¹⁴.

“The National Healing Forests Initiative is an important program that promotes intercultural learning and healing through urban forest spaces, showcasing initiatives that aim to address historical and social issues through nature.”

Vancouver has long been a leader in urban forest initiatives, showcasing the power of green infrastructure to enhance sustainable urban development¹⁵. The city’s commitment to preserving and expanding its urban forests is evident across numerous successful projects, from parks and greenways to innovative green roof installations.

Stanley Park, spanning a remarkable 1,000 acres, exemplifies Vancouver’s dedication to maintaining diverse ecosystems within the urban landscape¹⁵. This lush green oasis features old-growth forests, wetlands, and shoreline habitats, providing a sanctuary for native plant and animal species while offering recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Additionally, the city’s extensive network of greenways, such as the Seawall and the Arbutus Greenway, seamlessly integrates pedestrian and cycling infrastructure with urban forests and natural habitats¹⁵. These green corridors not only encourage active lifestyles but also serve as vital wildlife corridors, facilitating the movement and dispersal of species across the urban landscape.

Vancouver has also pioneered the use of green roofs, which have become an integral part of the city’s sustainable urban design philosophy¹⁵. These verdant rooftop gardens and landscapes not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the built environment but also provide valuable ecosystem services, such as stormwater management, air purification, and urban heat island mitigation.

One notable example is the VanDusen Botanical Garden Visitor Centre, which features a stunning green roof that blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape¹⁵. This innovative project not only showcases the environmental benefits of green infrastructure but also serves as a public educational and recreational hub, inspiring residents and visitors to embrace sustainable urban development.

Vancouver’s urban forest initiatives demonstrate a holistic approach to integrating nature into the fabric of the city, promoting biodiversity, improving environmental quality, and enhancing the overall well-being of the community¹⁵. These case studies highlight the transformative power of sustainable urban design and the crucial role that urban forests play in shaping a more livable and resilient future for Vancouver.

“We must view our cities as living, breathing organisms, where nature and human habitation coexist in harmony. The urban forest is the heartbeat of this symbiosis, connecting us to the natural world and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our communities.”
– Alexandra Steed, Founder, Alexandra Steed Urban

As Vancouver continues to lead the way in urban forest management, the city is focused on integrating innovative technology and green solutions to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of its urban greenspaces¹⁶. With a current urban forest comprising 160,000 street trees, numerous park trees, and 713 hectares of forest¹⁶, Vancouver is working towards increasing its canopy cover from the current 23% to an ambitious 30% by 2050¹⁶.

To address the challenges posed by climate change, such as the recent increase in wildfire smoke-related air quality advisories¹⁶, Vancouver is embracing innovative technologies and nature-based solutions. The city’s Urban Forestry team is implementing a proactive street tree maintenance programme, focusing on areas with diminished canopy and higher temperatures¹⁶, while also working to support young trees during drought seasons through targeted watering efforts¹⁶.

In addition to technological advancements, Vancouver is also reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development through policy recommendations that emphasise the importance of native species, habitat connectivity, and biodiversity in urban planning¹⁷. As the region faces a predicted decline in tree canopy cover to 29% by 2050¹⁷, the city recognises the crucial role that trees play in capturing, securing, and storing carbon as they grow¹⁶. With a comprehensive Urban Forestry Strategy, Vancouver aims to protect its urban forest during development, plant new trees to expand the canopy, and engage citizens in the stewardship of this vital green infrastructure¹⁶.

By integrating technology, implementing sustainable development policies, and engaging the community, Vancouver is well-positioned to safeguard and enhance its urban forest, ensuring that this vital green infrastructure continues to benefit the city and its residents for generations to come¹⁶¹⁷.

“Our urban forest is not just a collection of trees – it’s a living, breathing ecosystem that supports our city’s resilience, biodiversity, and overall well-being. As we look to the future, we’re committed to investing in innovative solutions and collaborative approaches to ensure our urban forest thrives for decades to come.”

– Alexandra Steed, Director of Urban Design, Vancouver

For those seeking an expert in urban design masterplanning, professionals like Alexandra Steed offer invaluable expertise in crafting sustainable, nature-integrated urban environments¹⁸. Choosing an authority in this field ensures that projects benefit from the latest knowledge and innovative approaches to urban forestry and environmentally conscious development.

By collaborating with an experienced urban design expert, cities can leverage cutting-edge strategies to enhance their green spaces and foster a more liveable, resilient future¹⁸. Alexandra Steed’s upcoming Vancouver office opening in 2024 provides an excellent opportunity for local and international stakeholders to partner on urban design initiatives that align with the city’s vision for a sustainable, nature-embracing tomorrow.

Alexandra Steed, a renowned urban design specialist, is poised to bring her wealth of knowledge and collaborative approach to Vancouver’s urban landscape¹⁸. Engaging with experts like Steed ensures that urban design projects seamlessly integrate with the city’s ambitious goals for increasing tree canopy cover, mitigating climate change impacts, and fostering vibrant, liveable communities.

1. PDF – https://www.cityofvancouver.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/urbanforestry_ar2022.pdf
2. Urban Forestry Management Plan – https://www.beheardvancouver.org/ufmp
3. Our Well-Being in the City: Urban Trees vs. Urban Forests – https://themeaningofwater.com/2023/08/20/our-well-being-in-the-city-urban-trees-vs-urban-forests/
4. Park Board passes updated Urban Forest Strategy with goal to increase canopy from 23% to 30% by 2050 – https://cityhallwatch.wordpress.com/2020/12/08/park-board-urban-forest-strategy-2050/
5. Urban forest plan calls for greater tree protection in West Vancouver – https://www.nsnews.com/local-news/urban-forest-plan-calls-for-greater-tree-protection-in-west-van-8473956
6. Mapping tree canopies in urban environments using airborne laser scanning (ALS): a Vancouver case study – Forest Ecosystems – https://forestecosyst.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40663-018-0146-y
7. Microsoft Word – Miro_Jacopo_MA_2011.docx – https://dspace.library.uvic.ca/bitstreams/bb6d7139-f566-4f6d-96c5-02c84bfad68c/download
8. Immersive Interactive Technologies for Positive Change: A Scoping Review and Design Considerations – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6085587/
9. Designing for a Healthier Tomorrow: Sustainable Greenhouses with Josh Holleb – Constructive Voices – https://uk-podcasts.co.uk/podcast/constructive-voices/designing-for-a-healthier-tomorrow-sustainable-gre
10. Fighting climate change through our urban forests – Beyond – https://beyond.ubc.ca/fighting-climate-change-through-our-urban-forests/
11. 21. Air Quality, Climate Change and Urban Forests – Tree Canada – https://treecanada.ca/resources/canadian-urban-forest-compendium/21-air-quality-climate-change-and-urban-forests/
12. Modelling Four Neighbourhood-Scale Urban Forest Scenarios for 2050: Vancouver, Canada – https://auf.isa-arbor.com/content/50/1/18
13. PDF – https://www.cityofvancouver.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Work-Plan-23-24.pdf
14. How cities can avoid “green gentrification” and make urban forests accessible – Beyond – https://beyond.ubc.ca/urban-forests/
15. Microsoft Word – Ross_ProjectReport_101214.docx – https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5b3babac70e802454aede034/t/5b5f4c572b6a289ef3011c29/1532972121073/Ross_MREMProjectReport_101214.pdf
16. Vancouver’s urban forest – https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/urban-forest-strategy.aspx
17. Are Metro Vancouver’s urban forest goals sunk? – https://www.nsnews.com/highlights/are-metro-vancouvers-urban-forest-goals-sunk-8718515
18. Report – Urban Forest Canopy Update: 2020 DEC 7 – https://parkboardmeetings.vancouver.ca/2020/20201207/REPORT-UrbanForestStrategyUpdate-20201207.pdf