Sponsor
Portland State University. Department of Geography
First Advisor
Paul Loikith
Term of Graduation
Fall 2024
Date of Publication
1-22-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (M.S.) in Geography
Department
Geography
Language
English
Subjects
climate mitigation, environmental justice, political ecology, socio-ecological systems, urban forestry governance, urban green equity
DOI
10.15760/etd.3869
Physical Description
1 online resource (ix, 145 pages)
Abstract
Urban tree equity is critical for addressing environmental justice and mitigating the effects of climate change in cities. This study investigates how professionals in Portland's urban forestry sector conceptualize and implement tree equity, focusing on equity and justice discourses. Through 27 semi-structured interviews with 29 professionals from government agencies and NGOs, I examine how these discourses shape decisions regarding tree planting, distribution, and maintenance, particularly in underserved communities. The analysis draws on political ecology, systems dynamics, and structuration theory to explore the systemic barriers perpetuating inequities in tree canopy distribution. The findings reveal tensions between different approaches to equity, such as opt-in versus opt-out tree planting models, and highlight the need for more community-driven solutions. This research contributes to understanding how environmental justice frameworks can guide equitable urban greening practices, offering insights into policy reforms and practical strategies for enhancing tree equity. Ultimately, the study calls for a more inclusive and participatory approach to urban forestry that prioritizes both ecological and social justice outcomes.
Rights
© 2024 Axcelle Deone Bell
In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/42993
Recommended Citation
Bell, Axcelle Deone, "Tree-equity and Environmental Justice Discourses Among Urban Forestry Professionals in Portland: Current Impacts and Future Implications" (2025). Dissertations and Theses. Paper 6750.
https://doi.org/10.15760/etd.3869
