Tree-D Fusion, a groundbreaking system developed by researchers including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)’s Sara Beery and Purdue University’s Jae Joong Lee, uses AI to create 3D models of urban trees from 2D images, such as those from Google Street View. This tool leverages species- and environment-specific data to simulate realistic tree growth and predict how urban forests will evolve over time. Beyond visualizing the future of green spaces, the system offers cities a “living digital forest” to monitor environmental stresses and assess tree health, helping urban planners proactively manage tree growth and avoid issues like interference with power lines.
The technology also addresses broader urban challenges, such as combating the heat island effect and improving city livability amid climate change. By mapping intricate shade patterns and envisioning future green spaces, Tree-D Fusion enables planners to strategically cultivate urban forests that can cool cities and mitigate heat buildup. These efforts align with studies showing that access to green spaces significantly impacts public health, life expectancy, and social equity, emphasizing the importance of incorporating urban forestry into city planning.
Looking to the future, the creators of Tree-D Fusion aim to scale the platform globally, using AI insights to promote biodiversity, sustainability, and ecosystem health. Alongside complementary research, such as studies on the number of trees needed to cool cities like Los Angeles, the system exemplifies how technology can merge with ecological science to create greener, more resilient urban environments that benefit both people and the planet.
