Environmental group urges tree preservation in urban planning

Alejandro Javier Argüelles Flores, director of the association Apoya Tu Bosque Local, has called on environmental authorities to tighten criteria for authorizing the removal of healthy, mature trees. He argues that urban construction and road projects should be adapted to accommodate existing trees rather than opting for removal as a primary solution.

Argüelles Flores noted that replacing decades-old trees with young saplings does not provide comparable environmental benefits, as young trees require many years to develop a canopy. He suggested that even when trees pose a risk, interventions such as pruning or structural supports should be prioritized over complete removal.