· 2 min read
illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Washington Post or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: Amid worsening wildfires and rising temperatures, experts and officials in Los Angeles are questioning the future of palm trees — long considered iconic to the city’s skyline
• Critics argue that palms offer little shade and pose serious fire risks due to their flammable fronds and towering structure
• The city is now prioritising the planting of native, shade-giving trees that better suit a hotter, drier climate
🔭 The context: Palm trees, none of which are native to L.A., were widely planted in the 20th century, especially ahead of the 1932 Olympics
• Once a symbol of glamour and sunshine, they are now seen as poorly adapted to current environmental conditions
• Many are already dying out due to disease and lack of replacement planting
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Shifting from palms to native species enhances urban biodiversity, provides critical shade to combat heat inequality, and reduces wildfire risk
• Greener, climate-resilient urban landscapes are essential in cities like L.A., where warming exceeds global averages
• Native trees like oaks also support more local wildlife and help with carbon sequestration.
⏭️ What's next: City officials and private developers are planting fewer palms and favouring native trees like California live oaks
• While some palms may remain in historic or symbolic areas, widespread replacement seems inevitable
• Future urban forestry decisions will need to balance climate adaptation with cultural identity
💬 One quote: "Let’s focus on those that are going to be the biggest and heaviest hitters when it comes to habitat and cooling." – Rachel Malarich, City Forest Officer for Los Angeles
📈 One stat: Los Angeles maintains around 100,000 palm trees, mostly planted in the 20th century
Click for more news covering the latest on climate change adaptation
