City earns “Tree City of the World” for third year

HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton has been recognized as a 2024 Tree City of the World by the Arbor Day Foundation. This is the third year in a row the City has received this designation for its ongoing commitment to plant, grow and maintain trees to benefit the community’s well-being.

The Tree City of the World program recognizes cities and towns internationally that use urban forestry to enhance the livability and sustainability of their local area. Hamilton is among 210 recognized cities worldwide, and one of 21 in Canada that meet the sustainable practices to receive certification. The City strategically selects and plants trees to maximize benefits for residents, including reduced traffic noise and improved flood and heat island effect mitigation.

“Being named a Tree City of the World for the third year in a row is a proud moment for Hamilton and a reflection of our commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and healthier city. This recognition directly supports Council’s Strategic Priorities—advancing Climate and Environmental Sustainability, Community Well-being and Safety, and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “Our urban forest is vital infrastructure that cools our neighbourhoods, improves public health by releasing oxygen and filtering greenhouse gases and pollutants, and supports biodiversity. Through strong collaboration between Council, City staff, and the community, we’re growing a more resilient and vibrant Hamilton for future generations.”

“The City's urban forest is a key contributor to building a dynamic, inclusive and healthy community. I am incredibly proud that Hamilton has been recognized as a Tree City of the World.” said Marnie Cluckie, City Manager. “This prestigious award reflects our community's commitment to sustainability and highlights the importance of our urban forest in improving the quality of life for all residents.”
Tree Giveaway Program – Saturday, May 31

Residents are invited to take part in the Tree Giveaway Program, a City initiative to enhance the urban tree canopy and increase biodiversity in local neighbourhoods. The annual Program has distributed 23,000 trees since it began in 2021 and this year estimates 5,000 trees will be given out at no cost to residents.

Program Details

There is an upcoming scheduled pick-up session this coming weekend. Pre-register and pick-up your tree or shrub:

• Date & time: Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 8 am to 12 noon
• Location: Bayfront Park
• Pre-register: Hamilton.ca/TreeGiveaway

The City is investing in cleaner air, cooler neighborhoods, and greener streets – work that is guided through its Urban Forest Strategy. By protecting public trees, setting clear policies, and engaging the community, the City is building a healthier, more livable city for all residents.

Quick Facts

• The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit organization that inspires people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. Founded in 1972, its network of more than a million supporters and partners has helped the organization plant over 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries.
• The City of Hamilton's Urban Forest Strategy outlines a vision to expand the City's tree canopy to 40% coverage by 2050. Initiatives include planting mini forests through the Community Planting Program, engaging residents through tree giveaways and promoting green infrastructure practices to enhance biodiversity and mitigate climate change impacts.
• Hamilton’s urban forest is part of the Carolinian forest region, one of Canada's most biologically diverse areas.
• Hamilton’s urban forest includes publicly and privately owned trees and supporting vegetation in the urban area. Hamilton’s urban forest has an estimated 6 million trees.
• As of 2024, Hamilton is home to 190,000 street trees within the urban boundary and over 65,000 trees in manicured parks. In 2024, the City planted nearly 20,000 trees.