On a hot day, asphalt temperatures can reach over 100°F. Trees in parking lots reduce asphalt temperatures by as much as 36°F, and car interiors by over 4°F. This can really make a difference in developed areas where temperatures are increasing due to climate change and the urban heat island effect. A young, healthy tree has the same net cooling effect as 10 room-sized air conditioners running 20 hours per day!

In addition:

• Shade trees can protect pavement from weathering, prolonging its functional life and reducing the cost of upkeep.
• Trees help filter air pollution from exhaust and absorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by cars baking in the sun.
• Consumers are more willing to pay to park in well-landscaped lots.
• The presence of trees promotes a feeling of safety and helps to slow traffic by narrowing the field of view for drivers.