Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s perceptions and preferences of urban forests in Australia

Urban forests provide numerous benefits, including improved air quality, reduced urban heat, and enhanced well-being. However, the distribution of these benefits is often uneven and can be driven by urban residents' perceptions and preferences. Inclusion of diverse perspectives in urban planning can lead to environmental equality in cities. However, research on perceptions and preferences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the Indigenous peoples of Australia, towards urban forests is lacking. This study aimed to assess how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people perceive and experience urban forests in New South Wales, Australia, and identify which factors influence these perceptions. Our findings revealed predominantly positive attitudes towards urban trees, with a particular preference for native species. Participants expressed a desire for increased tree cover in cities and demonstrated a strong appreciation for the multifaceted benefits provided by urban forests. Notably, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people perceived that their opinions and preferences were not adequately included in government decision-making processes regarding urban forestry. These results can inform the development of more inclusive urban forest policies and planning strategies that better incorporate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and Indigenous knowledge, ultimately contributing to more equitable and culturally responsive urban environments.