CSUN Needs More Trees

The campus of California State University, Northridge needs more trees and shaded spaces as temperatures in the San Fernando Valley continue to rise. The Valley already experiences extreme heat, with summer temperatures often exceeding 100°F during heat waves, and research shows that the greater Los Angeles area has warmed over time and could heat up by another 4 to 5°F by mid-century. Climate projections also suggest that the number of extreme heat days in the Valley could increase dramatically in the coming decades, making hot conditions more frequent and more intense. At the same time, urban development has replaced natural land with concrete and asphalt, which trap heat and make outdoor areas feel even hotter. Studies show that increasing tree cover can reduce temperatures by several degrees, while shaded spaces can make a significant difference in how hot it feels. Without more trees and shade, CSUN students will have to deal with increasingly uncomfortable and potentially unsafe conditions as the climate continues to warm. Students and community members should take action now by signing a petition to raise awareness and push for more sustainable, shaded campus spaces that will protect current and future students.