Arizona Sustainability Alliance, in partnership with American Forests and American Express, planted 45 trees at the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area in Phoenix, AZ on February 16, 2023. The objectives of this planting were to increase canopy cover at a local park, providing health and recreation benefits for the community.

Phoenix is among the fastest warming cities in the country. AZSA worked closely with the City of Phoenix and leveraged American Forests’ Tree Equity Score tool to identify areas of the city with low tree canopy and high heat and socioeconomic vulnerability. Formerly a dump site, the park currently has a Tree Equity Score of 56 and was selected as a planting site of high impact to the community.

The 25 Desert Willow and 20 Blue Palo Verde trees were planted by thirty Phoenix-based American Express volunteers along a multipurpose recreation path. By adding these 45 trees, the project will enhance the park’s shade canopy, mitigating the metropolitan heat island effects and offering thermal refuge for future generations of community members to enjoy walks and bike rides through the park in comfort.

Every tree planting project demonstrates impacts that create a more just and sustainable future.

More information soon.

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are a global call for action. These goals have the power to build a better future for everyone. Investment in this impact project drives action towards the following goals.

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