The digital tree-hugger: new tech comes to the aid of threatened urban trees

摘要

Some years ago, a mature plane tree in London’s Berkeley Square was ‘valued’ at £750,000, making it the most expensive specimen in the city. Factors in the calculation of its worth included its size, location, condition and age; it formed part of a stand of trees originally planted in 1789. Commodifying a tree may seem absurd, but it makes the point that the presence of nature in cities is precious. And if putting a price tag on it is the only way to bring this home to landowners, developers and councils, all shiftily eyeing their chainsaws, then perhaps it does not seem so unhinged.