Bhubaneswar: Urban greening, including extensive tree plantation and rooftop greenery, can play a major role in reducing carbon emissions and making cities safer and more liveable, said Dr Kajri Misra, Dean of the School of Human Settlements, XIM University.

Speaking at a special session on the concluding day of the three-day Earth Again Conference 2026, organised by Sambad at Utkal University in Bhubaneswar, Misra expressed concern over the decline in the city’s green cover compared with 10 to 15 years ago.

She said vacant spaces across the city should be covered with greenery and more trees and climbers should be planted to restore Bhubaneswar’s green character. She also highlighted the potential of rooftop plantations to reduce heat inside buildings and lower their carbon footprint.

Misra pointed out that construction and transportation are major sources of carbon emissions in urban areas. The use of steel and cement in buildings, along with emissions from transportation, creates a significant environmental burden, she said.

Referring to studies conducted in different parts of Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, she said increasing green cover in vacant spaces and planting trees on rooftops could help keep houses cooler while reducing their carbon footprint.

She also raised concern over the cutting of trees in urban areas and urged citizens to remain alert and oppose unnecessary tree felling through peaceful protests when required.

Misra said cities need to be viewed differently, beyond concepts such as smart cities and cleanliness. According to her, around 75% of the climate-related problems are linked to urban populations and the way cities are built and operated.

She noted that the pattern of urban development over the past 200 to 250 years has contributed significantly to the present environmental challenges.

Misra stressed that expanding green cover should be treated as an important part of urban planning. She said widespread tree plantation and protection of existing trees could help cities respond to rising temperatures, pollution and carbon emissions while creating healthier living environments.