In a feather in the cap for the country’s commercial capital, Mumbai has been chosen among the ‘Tree Cities of the World’ by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

The FAO --along with the Arbor Day Foundation -- honoured Mumbai and other cities across the world with certificates for their commitment to grow and maintain trees hence creating healthy and happy places to live.

The certificate of honour recognising Mumbai as a “2021 Tree City” was presented by Maharashtra’s Environment, Tourism and Protocol Minister Aaditya Thackeray to Municipal Commissioner Dr Iqbal Singh Chahal in presence of Tree Authority Chairman and Superintendent of Gardens Jitendra Pardeshi.

Mumbai is one among the group of 138 cities from 21 countries, who were recognised for sustaining greenery amid the fast-developing urban jungles.

Recognition through the Tree Cities of the World programme represents the first step toward achieving a green vision for the metropolis.

To receive recognition, a town or city must meet five core standards: establish responsibility, set the rules, know what you have, allocate the resources and celebrate achievements.

The Tree Cities of the World programme builds a global network of cities practicing urban forestry excellence around the world. Once recognised, the chosen cities receive access to an online portal where they receive branded Tree Cities of the World marketing materials, resources, and additional opportunities to engage in tree planting work with the Arbor Day Foundation.

In the coming years and as the network grows larger, Tree Cities will be able to share ideas and promote best practices in urban forestry with more and more global citizens.