Hobart is set to become one of the nation’s greenest cities under a new project that will fast-track the City of Hobart’s Urban Street Tree Strategy.
The new Our City Canopy project is an initiative established by philanthropist couple Douglas and Jenny Armati, who are aiming to accelerate the City of Hobart’s goal of creating an urban tree canopy across 40 per cent of the city by 2046.
Mr Armati said, “Planting trees has been a lifelong passion for myself and my wife Jenny, and by backing this new tree planting project through a special Trees for the Future Fund, we are turning a personal passion into something much bigger than ourselves. It’s something that will benefit the people of Hobart long after we are gone.”
The Armatis hope to see Hobart businesses, individuals and other philanthropists back the project by contributing to the Trees for the Future Fund that underpins the initiative.
“Increasing the number of trees that line our streets, parks and playgrounds will have so many positive impacts for our city and the people who call Hobart home,” Mr Armati said.
“Planting more trees across Hobart will make the city more climate resilient, more beautiful and ensure we have clean city air that is the envy of the world.
“Planting more trees also has real economic benefits by reducing stormwater run-off and the impacts of erosion and floodwater damage on city infrastructure.”
Hobart Lord Mayor, Anna Reynolds, welcomed the launch of the Our City Canopy project and applauded the Armatis’ leadership role.
“The Our City Canopy project and the fund that underpins it align perfectly with the City of Hobart’s Street Tree Strategy and our ambitious goal of making Hobart one of the greenest cities in Australia,” Lord Mayor Reynolds said.
“Trees are vital to a resilient and liveable city, and it is critical that we invest now if we are going to create a city for the future, one that enjoys the many benefits of a healthy, thriving urban forest.
Feature image: Philanthropist couple, Jenny (left) and Douglas Armati (right). Provided by City of Hobart.
