Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. The city has been named the official host for the 2026 Global Tree Cities Forum, the annual meeting of the Tree Cities of the World program. Scheduled for May 29, 2026, the event will bring together representatives from 44 Mexican cities plus delegations from across Latin America under the theme “Urban Trees as Seeds of Resilience.”
This marks the second consecutive year Puerto Vallarta has earned the hosting distinction, building on its initial recognition as a Tree City of the World in 2025. To achieve that status, the municipality conducted a comprehensive census identifying more than 23,000 urban trees representing roughly 200 species, while strengthening regulations and dedicating resources to preservation.
The international initiative is led by the Arbor Day Foundation, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, and Reforestamos México. Laura García Santamaría, leader of Tree Cities of the World for Mexico and Latin America, said the forum will help municipalities improve public policies, resource management, and planning tools that reduce urban heat and enhance environmental resilience.
Local officials say Puerto Vallarta is updating its environmental regulations, modernizing the tree inventory, and introducing environmental compensation measures so new development does not compromise ecosystem services. The intended benefits include cooler public spaces and healthier air quality for residents and visitors exploring the downtown area and nearby green attractions such as the Vallarta Botanical Garden.
The forum gives Puerto Vallarta a platform to share its green-infrastructure experiences and learn from officials and experts from other regions, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in urban sustainability.
Event Details
| Date | May 29, 2026 |
| Theme | Urban Trees as Seeds of Resilience |
| Expected attendance | Representatives from 44 Mexican cities + Latin American delegations |
| Organizers | Arbor Day Foundation, FAO, Reforestamos México |
| Host city credentials | 23,000+ urban trees, ~200 species |
