THE GOVERNANCE OF AMENITY TREES IN THE PREMISES OF INDUSTRIAL COMPANIES IN IBADAN METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

Industries contribute to environmental pollution, and increasing tree cover is an often-proposed urban climate change adaptation strategy. This study examined the governance of amenity trees so as to encourage industries to create policy frameworks to ensure trees perform to their maximum capacity. Twenty industries were randomly selected in Ibadan Metropolis. Structured questionnaires were distributed to three departmental/unit heads in each industry. Data were analysed using descriptive and chi-square analysis.
Nineteen amenity trees were identified. Polyalthia longifolia (30.8%) had the highest number, while Eucalyptus camaldulensis (0.6%) and Alstonia boonei (0.6%) had the smallest. Black Horse Plastic Limited had the most trees (33) on her property, followed by Premier Feedmill (30). Premier Feedmill company, on the other hand, had a higher species richness (six) than Black Horse Plastic Limited, which had only five species. Deepee Global had the fewest trees (eight) in and around their surroundings. Respondents (25.0%) stated that they had no idea when trees were planted, 38.3% revealed that there was no department(unit) responsible for tree management, and there was no precise tree maintenance schedule. However, the planting (38%), watering (55%), pruning (30%), cutting (30%), and cleaning of trees' surroundings (45%) were all conducted when needed. Respondents (98.0%) responded that no funds were set aside for tree management. The year of the planting, who conducted the planning, and the planting objective all have a significant relationship with silvicultural activities practiced in different industries.
The study confirmed that industries have trees, but there is no consistent tree management schedule and funding. It is therefore recommended that every industry creates a policy framework to guide strategic decision making in tree management.