Canadian cities consistently rank among the most livable in the world. The quality of the urban environment, including parks and green space and the overall level of greenness, plays an important role in promoting well-being. Trees and vegetation can improve urban air quality, moderate urban heat island effects, reduce or delay storm water runoff, provide wildlife habitat and provide recreational opportunities and beauty. Urban greenness reflects the presence and health of vegetation in urban areas and is a measure of the condition of an urban ecosystem.
