In 2025, Cali, Colombia, continues to uphold its 'Tree City of the World' designation, supported by a robust urban forest of more than 384,000 public trees. The Administrative Department for Environmental Management (Dagma) has been instrumental in managing the city's arboreal health, responding to 1,052 cases through its Arboreal Emergencies Unit in the first 100 days of 2025. A significant revitalization effort in March 2025 saw over 1,000 trees being maintained as part of a strategic plan. Community involvement is encouraged through a dedicated WhatsApp line for environmental emergencies, facilitating prompt reporting of ailing or hazardous trees.
Cali's commitment to urban forestry is further evidenced by its adoption of advanced assessment tools, including sonic scanners and root tomographs, crucial for maintaining its 'Tree City of the World' status. This international recognition, conferred by the FAO and the Arbor Day Foundation, requires adherence to five core standards: established responsibility for tree care, implemented policies, resource allocation, an updated tree inventory, and annual tree celebrations. The city's urban forest provides substantial economic and ecological benefits, estimated to generate approximately 9,003 tons of oxygen annually and valued at 2.1 trillion pesos. These benefits align with global trends in green infrastructure, mirroring efforts in cities like Medellin to create more resilient and livable urban environments.