Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleA coalition of environmental and horticultural groups is urging the British government to significantly increase tree cover and green spaces in urban areas. The Woodland Trust, Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), and Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) warn that more “green infrastructure” is crucial to mitigate the escalating threat of heatwaves across UK cities. Their call comes amid a summer with two record-breaking heatwaves, including temperatures of 35.1C in May and 37.7C in June. The groups cited a Manchester study that highlighted that tree shade reduced concrete temperatures by 12C and grass temperatures by 9C, demonstrating the cooling effect of greenery. The groups are advocating for a boost in domestic tree production and a dedicated action plan to support this, ensuring the UK is better prepared for future extreme heat. In fullUK cities urged to plant more trees to tackle dangerous heatwavesMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in