Wrong trees in the wrong place can make cities hotter at night, study reveals

Urban trees can cool cities by up to 12°C during the day but may trap heat at night, according to a study analyzing 182 studies from 110 global cities. Trees generally cool cities more in hot, dry climates than in humid ones. A mix of evergreen and deciduous trees in open urban layouts provides the most cooling benefits. Urban planners should carefully consider tree species, placement, and layout to maximize cooling effects and combat rising urban temperatures.