Big trees

The prosperous years are definitely over. The world is becoming busier, grayer, and more divided. Poor biodiversity, water shortages, and heat stress have far-reaching consequences for people and animals. It is evident that we, integrally, must start thinking differently and big if we seriously consider booking a ticket to the future.

Humans are not crazy, but it is striking that their world has strange traits. This is because we intentionally and unintentionally continually disrupt ourselves. For example, we strive for power, but we rarely voluntarily relinquish it once we have it. Convinced that we are right, we burst green with enthusiasm without acknowledging reality. Being together against something is not the same as being together for something. If you want to control the climate to some extent, you will really have to take long-term measures together.

Especially in the Netherlands, there is some catching up to do. Amazingly, we are so stuck. While in Singapore, which is at least as densely populated, it appears possible to have the most biodiversity of any city on earth. We are nowhere near that.

What to do?

What to do? I do have an idea. There is reportedly an inexpensive, proven machine that extracts CO2 from the atmosphere and sequesters carbon for the long term. A cultural, biological masterpiece that builds itself and is also known for its elegant appearance.

In my opinion, we do not give this machine enough time and space in the urban area.

Mature and old trees are essential to our survival. I, therefore, advocate a Big Trees in the City Strategy. There is no need to explain the qualities of a majestic tree. Large Trees contribute to urban design. They define spaces, enhance views, and create special urban character and atmosphere areas. Every tree planted is a promise. Growth over time allows a tree to reach its full potential to deliver a range of benefits to us. The yield increases over time. We must create the right conditions for large trees to grow in urban areas to take advantage of that. Patience is the key to a very bright future.

About this column:

In a weekly column, alternately written by Eveline van Zeeland, Derek Jan Fikkers, Eugène Franken, JP Kroeger, Katleen Gabriels, Bernd Maier-Leppla, Willemijn Brouwer, and Colinda de Beer, Innovation Origins tries to figure out what the future will look like. These columnists, sometimes joined by guest bloggers, all work in their own way to find solutions to the problems of our time. Here are all the previous installments.