sweet auburn | winter 2025-2026
Trees in the Age of Humans.
The impact of humans on planet Earth is now recognized as being substantial enough that scientists have suggested that we are in a new geologic era: the Anthropocene, meaning Earth in the Age of Humans. 9 Much has been written on this subject, and the following causal factors have been suggested: 1) There are too many people on the planet and not enough resources to support human populations; 2) humans in general are very poor at using natural resources sustainably; 3) human societies in general have developed in ways that do not promote the equal use and distribution of these resources across populations, societies, and cultures of their own species; 4) humans lack respect for the natural world; and, as a species, humans still do not understand their place in relationship to nature. Not everyone agrees on the severity of each factor.
Whatever the causes and factors that have led to the Anthropocene, it can be said that humans have clearly had a major effect on Earth and the biodiversity found on the planet, including the trees.
At Mount Auburn, work is underway to understand the resilience of the tree canopy in the face of climate change and other threats. Loss of some trees is inevitable, but that doesn’ t mean that action is futile. With this loss comes an opening for new species to be planted. By establishing a proactive management plan to grow tree species that are projected to thrive in the future climate, the tree canopy can be preserved along with the Cemetery’ s ecological value and aesthetic appeal. By taking a forward-thinking approach, Mount Auburn plans to lean into climate adaptation and set an example for similar organizations to follow, all for public benefit. There is hope to be found in the passion of horticulturalists at Mount Auburn and beyond. Their advocacy for trees provides us with a path forward.
Trees enrich the lives of humans and wildlife through their beauty, shade, natural resources, reduction of climate change effects via carbon sequestration, and so much more. Mount Auburn is committed to ensuring the health of these green titans in perpetuity.
Dr. Kress gave his sold-out To Know Our Trees lecture to an enthusiastic audience in Bigelow Chapel on May 14, 2026.
1
Carrero et al.,“ Data Sharing,” 1 – 17.
2
Nelson, Earle, and Spellenberg, Trees.
3
Humboldt, Geography of Plants.
4
Potter, Crane, and Hargrove,“ National Prioritization Framework,” 275 – 300.
5
Carrero et al.,“ Data Sharing,” 1 – 17.
6
Popkin,“ Deadly Pest,” 356.
7
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; NatureServe Explorer.
8
Carrero et al.,“ Data Sharing,” 1 – 17.
9
Kress and Stine, Anthropocene.
9