Arbor Day Foundation, Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN name record-breaking 210 Tree Cities of the World

Lincoln, Nebraska – The Arbor Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have recognized 210 communities as 2024 Tree Cities of the World.

The joint programme contributes to FAO’s Green Cities initiative, which is designed to strengthen green infrastructure in both urban and rural communities.

This year marks the largest number of cities ever honoured since the Tree Cities of the World programme began in 2018, celebrating cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the livability and sustainability of their local area.

“The cities recognized for 2024 are leading by example in providing green spaces and infrastructure that help define a sense of place and well-being where people live, work, play and learn,” said Zhimin Wu, Director of FAO’s Forestry Division.

“When properly planned, green spaces and infrastructure can mitigate the risk of natural disasters, contribute to climate change adaptation strategies, enhance social cohesion and make cities safer and more resilient.”

“Tree Cities of the World is more than a recognition programme. It’s a rapidly growing global movement, transforming how communities view and value their urban forest. It goes beyond borders, connecting passionate organizers and tireless tree planters, and uniting them under the shared mission of making our world’s communities healthier places to live,” said Sophie Plitt, programme manager at the Arbor Day Foundation.

“This record-breaking 2024 class is a testament to the power of trees in every corner of the world and we’re excited to honour these cities and their important work.”

Twenty-four countries, six continents

This year’s 210 Tree Cities of the World represent 24 countries and six continents. The Tree Cities of the World programme includes communities ranging in population size from 1,500 to 12 million people. Globally, more than 134 million people live in Tree Cities of the World, speaking 37 major languages.

By gaining recognition through the programme, many municipalities have garnered increased funding for community forest management, access to a unique global network of urban forestry professionals, and greater local support for canopy growth.

“In 2024, the City of Toronto planted over 130,000 trees, managed over 1,000 hectares of natural area parkland, and made significant strides to achieve equitable distribution of the urban forest across our diverse city,” said Teresa Bosco, Manager of Forest Policy and Planning for Toronto, Canada.

“We are thrilled to be part of a growing global network of cities recognized for their dedication to building strong and resilient urban forests and being leaders in stewardship, resource allocation, and innovation.”

Through the programme, we found an opportunity to unify diverse collectives—those promoting heritage trees, native plant palettes, and urban reforestation—to work together with the government,” said Emmanuel Bolaños Bautista, Deputy Director of the Department of Protected Areas and Environmental Value for Puebla, Mexico.

“The learning and exchange of experiences allow us to learn from the big players as well,” said Juan Pablo Diaz Laska, Secretary of Environment for Tocancipá, Colombia. “We are a small place, but we strive to create green spaces and replicate successful projects.”

To earn Tree Cities of the World recognition, a city must uphold five core standards: establish responsibility for the care of trees; enact a law or policy that governs the management of trees and forests; maintain an updated assessment of local tree resources; allocate resources for a tree management plan; and hold an annual celebration of trees to educate local residents.   

Click here to see a full list of the recognized 2024 Tree Cities of the World.