Greg is the chair of the National Trust Register for Significant Trees Committee and a tireless advocate fro Australia's tree heritage. "Urban trees are vital for sustainable, liveable cities." Greg has a specific interest in all aspects of the cultivation and management of trees and during a distinguished career was Principal of Burnley College for 19 years.
Greg highlighted the concerning situation of the declining tree canopy as more intensive development occurs in urban areas. Current rates of loss are 1-1.5% per annum from private land. Some 19% of Melbourne’s LGA’s now have less than 20% tree cover.
The implications include the creation of urban heat islands in cities, acceleration of climate change and lower rainfall. Research suggests that lack of tree cover is linked to heat wave deaths and health issues, while green space and tree canopy shade encourage exercise, along with a reduction in pollution and greater biodiversity.
Greg endorsed the 3:30:300 model in which everyone can see 3 trees from their home, live where there is a 30% tree canopy cover, and live within 300 metres of a green space.
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