New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg has planted the 500,000^th tree–a pin oak–as part of the city’s Million Trees Campaign. Beyond beautifying the city, trees help clean the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. They also lower surrounding temperatures and reduce storm water runoff.

Launched in 2007, the Million Trees Campaign is one year ahead of schedule. The campaign is a partnership between New York City and the New York Restoration Project, a nonprofit agency founded by entertainer Bette Midler. The city is planting trees on streets and in parks. The Restoration Project is focusing on the addition of trees to the grounds of cemeteries, churches, housing projects, and libraries. It is also offering free trees to encourage New Yorkers to plant in their own yards.

Additional Year Book article:

• Trees Under Threat (a special report)