New York spent 8 years planting one million trees. Now the city is aiming for 30% tree cover by 2040 to transform its fight against rising heat

New York City planted one million trees through the MillionTreesNYC campaign, reaching the goal in 2015.

The city now aims for 30% tree canopy coverage by 2040, prioritizing neighborhoods with high heat exposure.

Trees improve urban cooling by providing shade and releasing moisture, reducing heat absorbed by asphalt and concrete.