Many cities around the globe are struggling to reconcile ambitious environmental targets with development pressures, a study has suggested.
Scientists in Melbourne recorded a net gain in street tree cover but a net loss in parks and private land.
The Australian team says measures to protect mature trees are "critical" if the urban forest's cover is to be enhanced in the future.
The findings appear in the Sustainable Cities and Society journal.
Globally, the role of trees in towns and cities are well recognised, such as providing shade during hot summer months, and helping to absorb noise pollution and floodwater.
The team of researchers in Australia examined the plight of trees in the city of Melbourne in the decade between 2008 and 2017.
They observed a complex pattern: "Our analyses showed a net gain in tree canopy cover in public streets and a net loss of canopy cover in public parks and private properties," they say in their study.
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