Living in an apartment does not preclude citizens from helping their communities conserve energy with trees. Close to home, tenants can encourage landlords to plant trees as a way to save money and add curb appeal to their properties. Shade trees make properties more attractive and comfortable, which may raise demand and rental rates for apartment units. Also, tree shade slows the deterioration of asphalt shingles and asphalt pavement from excessive heating and ultraviolet radiation, extending the service life of these building materials. Finally, keeping buildings cool helps reduce the wear and tear on air conditioning systems that must run more frequently in the absence of tree shade.
Out in the community, apartment dwellers have numerous opportunities to advocate, organize, and implement community forestry projects that help with energy conservation. Tree planting projects are usually organized by the municipal department of public works or parks and recreation, often with the assistance of a tree commission and local civic groups. The Alliance for Community Trees is a nationwide network of tree advocates that orchestrates community tree planting projects annually during National Neighborwoods Month. Citizens can also contact their state urban forest council to learn about local tree planting initiatives.