Preserving Trees And Wetlands Play Key Role In Mitigating Climate Change

Trees and wetlands sequester carbon, suck up storm water, provide relief from extreme heat and help purify the air. A recent IPCC report found that the restoration of both are important in responding to climate change. Ahead of Arbor Day, we learn about efforts in the Chicago area to create more wetlands, plant more oak trees and create tree canopy in areas that have low canopy coverage. GUEST: Lydia Scott, director Chicago Region Trees Initiative, The Morton Arboretum, Paul Botts, executive director The Wetlands Initiative Karen Weigert, director of Loyola University’s Baumhart Center for Social Enterprise and Responsibility, Doug Widener, executive director of the Lincoln Park Conservancy, Lauren Umek, urban ecologist and project manager for the Chicago Park District