Recent efforts to improve and beautify Old San Juan may be having just the opposite effect — and residents want it to stop. Specifically, they want an end to large-scale cutting of mature trees in the 500 year old city, the oldest city in the United States. Residents have gathered more than 2,000 signatures on a petition to save the trees of Old San Juan.
“Old San Juan is not just a place full of history and culture; it is an ecosystem that must be protected for future generations,” the petition says.
Historic preservation
One reason is the desire to maintain the historic character of the city. The area in question has more than 180 trees of 18 different species, and these trees are central to the character of the city. But 50 of these trees — about 27% — are slated for removal.
San Juan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Officially, the whole of Old San Juan and the Renaissance-era fortifications comprise the San Juan National Historic Site. Opponents of the cutting of the trees hold that the city should make every effort to preserve the historic authenticity of the site.
Quality of life
Supporters of the trees of Old San Juan point out that streets are losing their shade. In a hot climate, this can make a big difference Shaded spots may be as much as 45 degrees cooler than those in full sun, while the natural process of evapotranspiration sending water vapor into the air from plants’ leaves can cool surrounding areas by as much as 9 degrees.
On the other hand, the Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority claims that the removal of the selected trees is essential to repair roads and sidewalks for the safety of residents and visitors. There are also concerns about vegetation near power lines, a problem Puerto Rico has faced all over the Island.
Environmental effects
Not only do trees provide beauty and coping shade, they are also important for the ecosystems in which they live as an integral part. Trees serve as filters, cleaning air and water and limiting erosion of soil. They provide habitats and living space for wildlife large and small.
Climate change is a very serious issue in Puerto Rico, and cutting old growth trees can exacerbate the problem.
While the government is replanting trees, some of the species chosen are decorative choices which don’t hold up well in the challenging environment of San Juan. The Arbor Day Foundation also points out that newly planted trees require ongoing care, which has not always been part of the plan.
