Using spatial analytics to model tree planting priorities in two South African cities of Bloemfontein and Kimberley

ABSTRACT This study uses geographic information-based multi-criteria decision analysis to identify and prioritise tree planting sites to promote equitable access to tree canopy coverage across a city. The study was conducted to find new urban tree plantings locations in the two South African cities of Bloemfontein and Kimberley. The study’s results found several trends highlighting inequity regarding access to trees. In Bloemfontein, 55% of census sub-places citizens are Black dominated, compared to 41% White and 3% Coloured. In Kimberley, 60% of census sub-places citizens are Black dominated, but these places have fewer tree covers of 1.2% compared to 8.3% in the White neighbourhoods. White-dominated neighbourhoods enjoy four times as much tree cover as found in the Black neighbourhoods. The findings of tree planting prioritization maps in the two cities show that places with a high priority for tree planting are often located in townships and low-income neighbourhoods. This work demonstrates how civil society may use publicly available satellite data and the techniques outlined here to hold governments responsible for environmental justice. The results stress the importance of greening policies and initiatives to reduce environmental disparities and advance sustainable development goals. KEY POLICY HIGHLIGHT Maintain and improve the existing urban forest canopy. Create and maintain a balance of trees between the developed and previously disadvantaged Promote the planting of indigenous and drought-resistant trees.