CHICAGO -- This first day of summer amid a week of extreme heat, a local group is planting trees in communities across the city in an effort to fight climate change.Citywide, Our Roots Chicago will plant thousands.'People that are excited to have a free tree planted in front of their parkway,' said program ambassador Caroline Williams.
While one may not associate a public health department with trees, Mansour explained why the connection is so important.He said trees do make a differenceâimproving air quality, providing shade, and reducing pollution. Trees also absorb carbon and help to lessen the impact of climate changeâand on hot days like Chicago has seen this week, they help lower air and surface temperature and thus reduce urban heat islands.