The Legislature finds and declares that:

(a) Trees are a vital resource in the urban environment and as an important psychological link with nature for the urban dweller.

(b) Trees are a valuable economic asset in our cities. They help maintain or increase property values, attract business and new residents in urban areas, and support job creation and business growth.

(c) Trees play an important role in energy conservation by modifying temperature extremes with shade and humidity, and by influencing wind direction and velocity. This role is particularly important in reducing the amount of energy consumed in heating and cooling buildings and homes, and potentially in producing a local fuel and energy source.

(d) Trees directly reduce air pollution by removing airborne particulates from the atmosphere and helping to purify the air.

(e) Trees help reduce noise, provide habitat for songbirds and other wildlife, reduce surface runoff and protect urban water resources, and enhance the aesthetic quality of life in urban communities.

(f) Trees planted in urban settings play a significant role in meeting the state’s greenhouse gas emission reduction targets by sequestering carbon as well as reducing energy consumption.

(g) Maximizing the benefits of trees through multiple-objective projects that provide environmental services can provide cost-effective solutions to the needs of urban communities and local agencies, including, but not limited to, increased water supply, clean air and water, reduced energy use, flood and stormwater management, recreation, and urban revitalization.

(h) Growing conditions in urban areas for trees and associated plants have worsened so that many of California’s urban communities are now losing more trees than are replaced.

(Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 720, Sec. 1. (AB 1530) Effective January 1, 2018.)