Planting the Seeds of Urban Forestry in Climate Change Education

An Education Community Webinar x PLACCE Conversation (April 2026) Trees symbolize climate action, but they are also living systems we can observe, care for, and learn from throughout our lives. How can urban forests support climate education across generations, especially as cities face growing environmental pressures? Drawing on Project Learning Tree (PLT) resources and urban forestry practice through the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), this session explores how trees connect climate mitigation and adaptation in everyday places. From K–12 learning, to partnerships with urban forest practitioners that inform planting and long-term care, to later-life practices of mindful observation, participants will leave with practical ways to strengthen stewardship and climate action across a lifetime of learning. This event will be guest moderated by educators from Trees Atlanta, who will also share information about their work connecting climate change education and urban forestry. Speakers: Meagan (Meg) Hanna, Director of Urban and Community Forestry - Canada, Sustainable Forestry Initiative Jaclyn (Jackie) Stallard, Curriculum Advisor and Network Lead, Project Learning Tree Starr Whitten, Education Senior Manager, Trees Atlanta Emily Hestness, Senior Educator, United States Botanic Garden Libby Rhoads, United States Botanic Garden Sarah Fiorello, Cornell Botanic Gardens This session is presented as a collaboration between the Association’s Education Community and PLACCE (Plants and Climate Change Education). PLACCE is a partnership between the United States Botanic Garden and the American Public Gardens Association. The statements and opinions expressed by panelists, hosts, attendees, or other participants of this event are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of, nor are endorsed by, the American Public Gardens Association.