Tucson Standard

Mayor Regina Romero's Tucson Million Trees Program is receiving a $50,000 donation from the Southwest Gas Foundation.

According to KGUN 9 News, the amount was matched by another $50,000 donation, bringing the total to $100,000 to go towards planting trees in the city. The mayor's office has partnered with the 'Tucson Clean and Beautiful' organization to launch the initiative to plant one million trees in high-risk Tucson communities by 2030. 

The Southwest Gas Foundation has donated $15,000 so far which will be used to plant 430 trees, which will benefit the city by decreasing air pollution and providing shade to lower energy costs for residents.

"Today we are seeing what is possible when the public and private sector come together to act on climate," Romero said, according to KGUN 9. "Increased urban heat is a result of greenhouse gas emissions, low tree canopy, and increased paved surfaces, and our historically underserved neighborhoods are in urgent need of urban shade. I am very grateful to the Southwest Gas Foundation for stepping up to do their part to help cities like Tucson address extreme heat. As we plan and act on climate, we will continue to identify ways to reduce carbon emissions from all our energy sources."

Tucson Clean and Beautiful identified the Tucson neighborhoods most in need of tree investment using the city's Tree Equity Score Analyzer.

"This donation to Tucson Clean and Beautiful is just the latest example of Southwest Gas’ ongoing efforts to partner with our communities on projects that enhance quality of life in our service territories and provide sustainable, environmental solutions," Southwest Gas Corporation's Vice President of Sustainability and Policy Dr. Laura S. Nelson said, according to KGUN 9. "We expect this donation to increase the number of trees in up to five neighborhoods around Tucson. We’re proud to team with Mayor Romero’s Tucson Million Trees program, Tucson Clean and Beautiful, and the homeowners and neighborhoods who will benefit from increased shade, cooler temperatures, and improved air quality."

Mayor Romero was awarded the 2022 Ironwood Award for Public Service from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management in recognition of her efforts to mitigate climate change.