Energy-Saving Trees Program

A community tree distribution program designed to help local governments and organizations establish "community canopy" projects by distributing trees to homeowners and tracking their environmental and energy benefits.

Geographic Scope: United States (43 partners in 36 states as of 2017)

Focus Areas:

• Urban tree canopy expansion
• Energy savings through strategic tree placement
• Community engagement in tree planting
• Environmental benefits tracking (carbon reduction, stormwater mitigation, air quality)

Key Features:

• Customizable tree distribution: 100 to 30,000 trees per season
• Flexible delivery options: Mail, pick-up events, or hybrid approaches
• Software platform: Web-based system for homeowner education, tree tracking, and benefit measurement
• Branding: Can use Energy-Saving Trees brand or customize to community branding
• Financial benefits: Studies show $1.37-$3.09 return per dollar invested; up to $9+ per dollar with strategic placement

Program Options:

• All-inclusive program (Arbor Day Foundation handles everything)
• Software-only option (work with existing programs)

Example Outcomes:

• First five years: distributed nearly 190,000 trees, generating $106 million in combined energy and community benefits
• Orlando's "One Person, One Tree" initiative: distributed 3,700+ trees to 2,537 homeowners, accumulated $1.9 million in benefits ($14 per $1 invested)
• Exelon partnership: distributed 110,000+ trees across six utility service areas, generating $63 million in combined benefits

Application Process

The Energy-Saving Trees program operates on a rolling basis. Communities and organizations can:

1. Contact the Arbor Day Foundation for program information and customization options
2. Work with program manager (e.g., Kristen Bousquet, business development manager at Arbor Day Foundation, Lincoln, Nebraska)
3. Customize program parameters:
   • Number of trees to distribute
   • Tree species and sizes
   • Delivery method (mail, pick-up, or hybrid)
   • Branding approach
   • Financial structure
4. Set up online ordering system for homeowners
5. Coordinate distribution through chosen method
6. Track benefits through web-based software platform

Key Considerations:

• Pricing is per-tree basis ($14-$50 depending on size, variety, and delivery)
• No separate software or user fees
• Communities typically secure local partner funding
• Can integrate with existing GIS systems and local regulations