2025-12-10
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Canberra's tree canopy coverage is going backwards, according to the ACT Government's latest report. The Greens are calling on Labor to rapidly increase coverage to protect Canberrans from extreme weather. "Here in our bush capital, Canberrans appreciate living in cool leafy suburbs with surrounding green spaces that protect us from extreme weather" said Andrew Braddock MLA, ACT Greens spokesperson for climate adaptation. "But under Labor's watch, tree canopy coverage has declined from 23% in 2020 to 22% in 2025. We're also off track to meet our 2045 target of 30% canopy cover for Canberra's urban footprint. Clearly, something needs to change. "Outer suburbs are hit doubly hard. Suburbs like Macnamara and Whitlam will suffer the most with fewer trees, and more low-income, older and younger people who will experience extreme weather the most. "Business-as-usual is not good enough while Canberrans are set to face more extreme weather, including heatwaves. "Canberrans deserve an explanation from Labor. Why is Canberra going backwards and how do they propose to get back on track? "For too long fossil fuel companies and governments have put the onus on individuals. It's time that governments step up and do the heavy lifting to protect us from climate change. ENDS |