As the urbanization of the human population increases, the destruction of green spaces in urban areas is increasing at an alarming rate. Urban areas with less tree coverage, are often communities of color and tend to have higher levels of air pollution, which is linked to increased rates respiratory diseases, particularly in children. Latino neighborhoods have up to 21% less tree canopy coverage compared to predominantly White neighborhoods in the same cities. 

Solutions for nature access in urban areas should be prioritized to hit the nexus of biodiversity, climate gains, and societal benefits. In the U.S., the biggest hot spots for nature loss within communities of color are in metropolitan areas, usually Latino and African-American neighborhoods.

“For more than a decade, Hispanic Access has catapulted our trust-based community networks into action by providing access, capacity, and the belief to create beneficial changes in their communities,” said Hispanic Access Foundation President and CEO Maite Arce. "We are thrilled to support Egg Harbor City to equip underserved communities with not only more trees and plants in their neighborhoods but also the knowledge and resources to engage in urban forestry.” 

Egg Harbor City is committed to expanding its green infrastructure through several key initiatives. The city plans to hire a licensed tree expert to perform systematic tree maintenance along municipal roads and coordinate these efforts with ongoing road improvement projects. Additionally, a Certified Arborist or Landscape Architect will be engaged to design green spaces, update the city’s tree inventory, and create strategic tree plans.

To promote community involvement, Egg Harbor City will organize tree-planting events and educational programs, encouraging participation from individuals and organizations. These initiatives aim to enhance fair access to urban tree canopy, bolster climate resilience, and increase community engagement in local urban forestry efforts.

“We are beyond grateful for this grant award,” said Egg Harbor City Mayor, Lisa Jiampetti. “The funding will provide a small city like ours the ability to properly maintain, restore, enhance, and preserve our trees and forests for future generations to enjoy.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service awarded more than $1 billion in competitive grants through the Urban and Community Forestry Program. Hispanic Access Foundation and the other awardees will be working towards advancing the mission of Justice40, to deliver 40% of the program’s investments through established and new partnerships working to support disadvantaged communities experiencing low tree canopy and environmental justice issues.