Plant trees and improve health
Recorded On: 10/31/2019
The relationship between trees and human health outcomes is a complex one. Yet research continues strengthened the case for expanding opportunities for urban residents to mitigate chronic health conditions through active experiences that feature trees, forests, and other natural settings.
The U.S. Forest Service completed a research study that found trees are saving 850 lives annually and preventing 670,000 incidences of acute respiratory symptoms. A recent study found that not all green space is created equal and a higher correlation of better health outcomes were associated with trees specifically. Come learn from the Arbor Day Foundation and Cleveland Clinic on why investing in trees can lead to better community health.
Participants will learn:
- about the program’s requirements for annual recognition.
- how and why leading health care institutions invest in trees on and off campus for improved health.
- from Cleveland Clinic’s experience and how a new recognition program fits into sustainability programs.
- how to inspire participation by health care leaders and facility managers to apply for the program.
Jon Utech
Cleveland Clinic Office for a Healthy Environment senior director
Jon E. Utech develops sustainability strategies to emphasize connection of environmental stewardship to Cleveland Clinic’s health care mission. He directs the Clinic's sustainability program covering energy demand reduction, recycling, LEED, climate resilience, green supply chain, water reduction, engagement and reporting. Utech has more than 18 years of corporate strategy and planning experience and 10 years of corporate sustainability program and renewable energy experience prior to joining Cleveland Clinic in 2013.
Pete Smith
Arbor Day Foundation urban forestry program manager
Smith supports the community forestry programs such as Tree City USA, Tree Campus USA, and Tree Line USA; the annual Partners in Community Forestry and Trees & Utilities conferences; Arbor Day Awards; and the Energy Saving Trees program. Prior to joining the Arbor Day Foundation in 2014, Smith spent 26 years with the Texas A&M Forest Service, completing his tenure as state coordinator for the Urban & Community Forestry program. He is a native of Philadelphia, a naturalized citizen of Texas, and currently resides in Lincoln, Neb.
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