Urbanization has led to a significant decrease in green spaces, creating substantial environmental challenges. Despite negative perceptions about urban trees, they play a crucial role in enhancing ecosystem health and human well-being amidst a global climate crisis. It is important to acknowledge their value, preserving and expanding urban trees as a fundamental strategy for constructing sustainable, resilient cities.
In this presentation, I draw upon my extensive research, spotlighting the diverse significance of urban trees, from influencing academic performance to cancer prevention, based on collaborations with municipalities and schoolboards in Ontario. I then transition to discuss my current role as the Research Chair of Urban Trees and its Environment at Université Laval, in partnership with Quebec City. Our focus lies in developing innovative tools that integrate trees and urban soils as natural climate solutions, mitigating human-induced and abiotic stressors through GHG mitigation and carbon storage. This discussion delves into the urgent challenges faced by cities, with a specific focus on Quebec City. By closely collaborating with practitioners, industry communities, and government entities, our research lab emphasizes the critical importance of applying scientific knowledge in practical contexts. This session provides a platform to explore the transformative potential of urban trees, highlighting their pivotal role in promoting health, climate resilience, and collaborative urban development.
Dr. Janani Sivarajah is the Assistant Professor of Urban Forestry and holds the Research Chair on Urban Tree and its Environment in the Department of Wood and Forest Sciences. at Université Laval, in Quebec City. She is a Registered Professional Forester (R.P.F) of the Ontario Professional Foresters Association. She is also an associate member of the Center of Forest Research (CEF). Janani obtained an Honours Bachelor of Science, Master of Forest Conservation, and a PhD in forestry from the University of Toronto. For over eight years, she has worked as a consultant, advisor and professional in Ontario's urban forestry and non-profit sector. Her work crosses disciplines, and she is passionate about building healthy, resilient ecosystems and communities. Most of her work aims to address and assess human anthropogenic impacts on urban forests and soils. Her lab is positioned at the science-society interface, and her work aims to bridge the science-society divide by working closely with practitioners, industry communities, and the government. For more information, visit www.jananisivarajah.com
