Investigating the Nature of Cities

You might not think that cities and forests go together, but, according to Kathleen Wolf, who researches the way people relate to forests in cities, urban forests seem to be a natural fit for many people.

Dr. Wolf says that forests are an important part of city life. Biologists have long recognized that city trees provide environmental benefits like reducing air pollution and improving water quality. Dr. Wolf argues that trees provide many human benefits as well by contributing to greater job satisfaction and productivity, helping reduce anxiety and stress, and enhancing people’s quality of life.

Lately, Dr. Wolf has been looking into the economic effect of urban forests. Her research uses survey questionnaires to investigate public perceptions of trees in shopping areas. And she has found that trees can make a big difference for many shoppers. According to Dr. Wolf, “A healthy, vital urban forest sends messages that welcome shoppers.” Dr. Wolf’s research reveals that shoppers are willing to pay an average of 12 percent more for products that are bought in districts with trees.

Dr. Wolf thinks that urban forests could be a boon to businesses and biodiversity. “The project outcomes can help us plan and manage urban forests to better meet business needs.” She’s hoping that her research will convince business owners and city planners that money does grow on trees after all.