Low tree canopy in American cities contributes to numerous environmental, economic and health problems. Planting trees can help lower energy use, improve air quality, and increase quality of life. We worked with the Massachusetts Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the Department of Conservation and Recreation to evaluate the impacts of its Greening the Gateway Cities tree planting program in Fall River and Chelsea. Our group conducted interviews with officials and residents to understand how they define success and developed a methodology for assessing success using tree coverage models and input from residents. Finally, we provided recommendations to improve the program’s outreach and advertising, communication, tree planting & maintenance, and survey development methods.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Kosmo, Stephen Louis
• Addai, Michelle
• Lanni, Rachael M.

Subject

• Sustainability
• Well-Being
• Energy
• Environment
• Health

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-101316-133313

Keyword

• Sustainability
• Open spaces
• Sustainable development--Environmental aspects

Advisor

• Belz, Melissa
• Tuler, Seth

Year

• 2016

Center

• Boston, Massachusetts Project Center - IQP

Sponsor

• Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA)
• Massachusetts Dpeartment of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)

Date created

• 2016-10-13

Location

• Boston

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright