In June 2020 a major report was released by Conservation SA, in consultation with community, non-profit and professional organisations concerned with what’s happening to our trees. 

Adelaide is losing its significant, regulated and mature trees at an alarming rate.

The evidence is clear: big trees improve our health and wellbeing, increase property values, and reduce the build-up and trapping of heat. They are arguably the single best infrastructure investment to prepare our streets and suburbs for a changing climate.

While Councils and communities are working hard to plant new trees, there is not enough available space on public land to replace what we are losing from people’s backyards. And it will take many years for a newly planted tree to provide similar benefits to one that is mature.

There is no city-wide, comprehensive data on the scale of the loss, but the research in this report indicates somewhere between a 1–6% reduction in tree canopy (depending on the area and the timeframe).

We need to act – and act quickly – before it’s too late.

Download the full report (web – print)

This report has been prepared by community, non-profit and professional organisations concerned with what’s happening to our trees. We hope Government and Council decision-makers will recognise the value of preserving big trees in Adelaide’s landscape and take all necessary steps the reverse this damaging trend.

How can you help?

To turn the tide, we need everyone – homeowners, developers, arborists and decision-makers – to stand up for our precious trees.

• Use this report to talk to your local Member of Parliament and local government Councillors and explain how much trees mean to you.
• Talk to your neighbours and make sure your street supports its trees.
• Write to your local paper, share your thoughts on social media or call talkback radio.
• Get involved with the Conservation SA’s Protect our Trees campaign.
• Donate to our 2020 Tree Appeal to help support our ongoing work to defend Adelaide's irreplaceable trees.