Santo Domingo faces declining tree canopy coverage

Santo Domingo is facing a significant decline in tree canopy coverage due to rapid urban development and a prioritization of concrete infrastructure over green spaces. Recent studies from Frontiers in Sustainable Cities indicate that the National District has only 15.4% tree coverage, making it one of the cities with the lowest green coverage in the Caribbean.

International standards suggest that cities like Santo Domingo should maintain between 25% and 30% visible tree coverage. The current lack of vegetation has contributed to a 5°C increase in local temperatures, accelerated cement expansion, and deteriorating air quality.

According to World Health Organization recommendations, residents should ideally have 30% vegetation coverage in their neighborhoods, three visible trees from their homes, and access to a quality green area within 300 meters. Current urban projects in the city are criticized for failing to integrate trees and green areas adequately, impacting both physical and emotional health.