Urban trees under climate stress - what municipalities can do

Climatic changes threaten tree population

Climate change and urban urbanization with many sealed surfaces have contributed to trees in cities suffering under extreme conditions. Increasing drought has also led to considerable challenges in many cities around the world in recent years. This problem is not only a question of aesthetic cityscape, but also has an impact on the urban ecosystem and the quality of life of people and animals in these areas.

The ecological value of urban trees

Urban trees are not just decorative elements. They fulfill numerous important functions in the ecosystem that support both human and animal life. Trees help to improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and releasing oxygen. They also provide ideal shade and cool the air in urban areas, which is particularly important during heat waves. They also act as natural noise barriers and provide a habitat for numerous animal species, from birds to insects.

Trees also contribute to mental health by creating green oases that serve as a retreat from hectic city life. This is because studies have shown that spending time in green spaces reduces stress and increases general well-being. Given these multiple benefits, it is crucial to protect the health and survival of urban trees.

Smart irrigation with LoRaWAN - what municipalities can do

One promising solution for the sustainable and efficient irrigation of trees and plants is the use of wireless radio sensors based on LoRaWAN radio technology. LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a radio technology that is characterized by its long range and low energy consumption. More and more cities and municipalities have such a network, as it can be used to map numerous different application scenarios in the smart city context.

Conclusion

The increasing drought poses a significant challenge for the preservation of urban trees. Given the numerous environmental and social benefits that trees provide, it is crucial to implement innovative solutions such as the use of LoRaWAN. This technology enables efficient and resource-saving irrigation, which not only ensures the survival of trees, but also contributes to the sustainable development of our cities. By protecting the health of our urban trees, we are investing in a more liveable and environmentally friendly future for all city dwellers.