Arbor Day Foundation: 30% of Tree Projects Related to Extreme Heat in 2024
'Communities are struggling to endure the pressures of rising heat and they're reaching for trees as a way to cope. This data is a validator of trees in their role as critical infrastructure. In our world's cities, trees are a 'must-have', not just a 'nice-to-have',' said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. 'As the rate of extreme heat increases, so must our response. The Arbor Day Foundation is focused on leveraging the latest data and technology to help reach communities in need. Alongside our global network of planting partners, we're meeting the moment with action.'
The new data analysis from the Arbor Day Foundation revealed last year's 115 heat-related projects resulted in more than 52,000 trees planted or distributed with the specific aim of creating cooling. These trees were brought into front yards, back yards, city streets, parks, playgrounds, and school campuses across 27 U.S. states and seven additional countries.
Trees planted in cities and neighborhoods have the power to reduce life-threatening heat by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit and improve air quality worsened by the heat.
According to the World Meteorological Organization, the last 10 years have been the hottest years on the planet, with 2024 being the hottest ever recorded. The rising heat has proven deadly. The National Weather Service estimates extreme heat accounts for more deaths annually in the U.S. than every other natural disaster combined. Additionally, extreme heat is proven to increase hospitalizations related to cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses.
In total in 2024, the Arbor Day Foundation planted or distributed a combined 1.5 million trees across 409 tree planting projects in cities and towns. In addition to extreme heat, projects helped to improve air quality, support disaster recovery efforts, establish food forests, and grow green spaces in undercanopied areas. The work was accomplished in collaboration with 235 local planting partners in 46 U.S. states and 28 countries.
Click here to learn more about how the Arbor Day Foundation leverages data, science and mapping to focus its work in communities where extreme heat has a disproportionate impact.
About the Arbor Day Foundation
The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. They foster a growing community of more than 1 million leaders, innovators, planters, and supporters united by their bold belief that a more hopeful future can be shaped through the power of trees. For more than 50 years, they've answered critical need with action, planting more than half a billion trees alongside their partners.
And this is only the beginning.
The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the power of trees. Learn more at arborday.org.
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Associated Press
27 minutes ago
- Associated Press
JCR Pharmaceuticals Announces the Achievement of Enrollment in the JR-141 Global Phase III Clinical Trial
HYOGO, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jul 2, 2025-- JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (TSE 4552; JCR) announced that it achieved the enrollment of the target number of participants in the global Phase III clinical trial of JR-141 (INN: pabinafusp alfa), which is in development for the treatment of mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II, also known as Hunter syndrome). The Phase III clinical trial is ongoing in the United States, Latin America, and Europe. ( JR-141-GS31 ) JR-141 is a recombinant fusion protein of an antibody against the human transferrin receptor and iduronate-2-sulfatase, the enzyme that is missing or malfunctioning in people with Hunter syndrome. JR-141 was developed using J-Brain Cargo ®, JCR's proprietary blood-brain barrier (BBB)-penetrating technology, which is designed to deliver biotherapeutics across the BBB into the central nervous system (CNS) to address the neurological symptoms of Hunter syndrome. 'This achievement is a milestone in the JR-141 clinical development program, as the Hunter syndrome community needs a therapy that treats the cognitive symptoms of this devastating and life-threatening disease for which there are inadequate treatment options available,' said Shin Ashida, Chairman, President and CEO of JCR Pharmaceuticals. 'We are making good progress in this global Phase III clinical trial, and we look forward to sharing the clinical data as they are available. Thank you to all the participants who are part of this clinical trial.' In March 2021, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) in Japan approved JR-141 (also known by the brand name IZCARGO ® ) for a lysosomal storage disorder. JR-141 is the first-ever approved ERT in the world that penetrates the BBB. About JR-141 JR-141 (INN: pabinafusp alfa) is a recombinant fusion protein of an antibody against the human transferrin receptor and iduronate-2-sulfatase, the enzyme that is missing or malfunctioning in subjects with Hunter syndrome. It incorporates J-Brain Cargo ®, JCR's proprietary blood-brain barrier (BBB)-penetrating technology, to cross the BBB through transferrin receptor-mediated transcytosis, and its uptake into cells is mediated through the mannose-6-phosphate receptor. This novel mechanism of action is expected to make JR-141 effective against the central nervous system (CNS) symptoms of Hunter syndrome. In non-clinical trials, JCR has confirmed both high-affinity binding of pabinafusp alfa to transferrin receptors and passage across the BBB into neuronal cells. In addition, JCR has confirmed enzyme uptake in various brain tissues. The company has also confirmed a reduction of substrate accumulation in the CNS and peripheral organs in an animal model of Hunter syndrome. 1,2 In several clinical trials of pabinafusp alfa, JCR obtained evidence of reducing heparan sulfate concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid, a biomarker for assessing effectiveness against CNS symptoms; these results were consistent with those obtained in pre-clinical studies. 3 Clinical studies have also demonstrated the positive effects of pabinafusp alfa on CNS symptoms. 4,5,6 About Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II (Hunter Syndrome) Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II, or Hunter syndrome) is an X-linked recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency of iduronate-2-sulfatase, an enzyme that breaks down complex carbohydrates called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs, also known as mucopolysaccharides) in the body. Hunter syndrome, which affects an estimated 2,000-3,000 individuals worldwide (according to JCR research), gives rise to a wide range of somatic and neurological symptoms. The current standard of care for Hunter syndrome is enzyme replacement therapy. Central nervous system symptoms related to MPS II have been unmet medical needs so far. About JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (TSE 4552) is a global specialty pharmaceutical company that develops treatments that go beyond rare diseases to solve the world's most complex healthcare challenges. We continue to build upon our 50-year legacy in Japan while expanding our global footprint into the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. We improve patients' lives by applying our scientific expertise and unique technologies to research, develop, and deliver next-generation therapies. Our approved products in Japan include therapies for the treatment of growth disorder, MPS II (Hunter syndrome), Fabry disease, acute graft-versus host disease, and renal anemia. Our investigational products in development worldwide are aimed at treating rare diseases including MPS I (Hurler, Hurler-Scheie and Scheie syndrome), MPS II, MPS IIIA and B (Sanfilippo syndrome type A and B), and more. Our core values – Putting people first, Forging our own path, Always advancing, and Committed to excellence – mean that the work we do benefits all our stakeholders, including employees, partners, and patients. We strive to expand the possibilities for patients while accelerating medical advancement at a global level. For more information, please visit JCR's global website: Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This document contains forward-looking statements that are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control. Forward-looking statements often contain words such as 'believe,' 'estimate,' 'anticipate,' 'intend,' 'plan,' 'will,' 'would,' 'target' and similar references to future periods. All forward-looking statements regarding our plans, outlook, strategy and future business, financial performance and financial condition are based on judgments derived from the information available to us at this time. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to be materially different from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, a deterioration of economic conditions, a change in the legal or governmental system, a delay in launching a new product, impact on competitors' pricing and product strategies, a decline in marketing capabilities relating to our products, manufacturing difficulties or delays, an infringement of our intellectual property rights, an adverse court decision in a significant lawsuit and regulatory actions. This document involves information on pharmaceutical products (including those under development). However, it is not intended for advertising or providing medical advice. Furthermore, it is intended to provide information on our company and businesses and not to solicit investment in securities we issue. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements publicly or to update the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, even if new information becomes available in the future. 2: Morimoto, et al. Clearance of heparin sulfate in the brain prevents neurodegeneration and neurocognitive impairment in MPS II mice. Mol. Ther. 2021; 29(5): 1853-1861. 3: Okuyama, et al. Iduronate-2-sulfatase with Anti-human Transferrin Receptor Antibody for Neuropathic Mucopolysaccharidosis II: A Phase 1/2 Trial. Mol Ther. 2020; 27(2): 456-464. 4: Okuyama, et al. A Phase 2/3 Trial of Pabinafusp Alfa, IDS Fused with Anti-Human Transferrin Receptor Antibody, Targeting Neurodegeneration in MPS-II. Mol Ther. 2021; 29(2): 671-679. 5: Giugliani, et al. Iduronate-2-sulfatase fused with anti-human transferrin receptor antibody, pabinafusp alfa, for treatment of neuronopathic and non-neuronopathic mucopolysaccharidosis II: Report of a phase 2 trial in Brazil. Mol Ther. 2021; 29(7): 2378-2386. 6: Giugliani, et al. Enzyme Replacement Therapy with Pabinafusp Alfa for Neuronopathic Mucopolysaccharidosis II; an Integrated Analysis of Preclinical and Clinical Data. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, Volume 22, Issue 20, 10938. View source version on CONTACT: Investors & Media: JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. Corporate Communications [email protected] KEYWORD: UNITED STATES JAPAN NORTH AMERICA ASIA PACIFIC INDUSTRY KEYWORD: RESEARCH NEUROLOGY CLINICAL TRIALS BIOTECHNOLOGY HEALTH PHARMACEUTICAL GENERAL HEALTH OTHER SCIENCE SCIENCE SOURCE: JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 07/02/2025 11:12 AM/DISC: 07/02/2025 11:12 AM
Business Wire
41 minutes ago
- Business Wire
JCR Pharmaceuticals Announces the Achievement of Enrollment in the JR-141 Global Phase III Clinical Trial
HYOGO, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (TSE 4552; JCR) announced that it achieved the enrollment of the target number of participants in the global Phase III clinical trial of JR-141 (INN: pabinafusp alfa), which is in development for the treatment of mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II, also known as Hunter syndrome). The Phase III clinical trial is ongoing in the United States, Latin America, and Europe. (JR-141-GS31) JR-141 is a recombinant fusion protein of an antibody against the human transferrin receptor and iduronate-2-sulfatase, the enzyme that is missing or malfunctioning in people with Hunter syndrome. JR-141 was developed using J-Brain Cargo®, JCR's proprietary blood-brain barrier (BBB)-penetrating technology, which is designed to deliver biotherapeutics across the BBB into the central nervous system (CNS) to address the neurological symptoms of Hunter syndrome. 'This achievement is a milestone in the JR-141 clinical development program, as the Hunter syndrome community needs a therapy that treats the cognitive symptoms of this devastating and life-threatening disease for which there are inadequate treatment options available,' said Shin Ashida, Chairman, President and CEO of JCR Pharmaceuticals. 'We are making good progress in this global Phase III clinical trial, and we look forward to sharing the clinical data as they are available. Thank you to all the participants who are part of this clinical trial.' In March 2021, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) in Japan approved JR-141 (also known by the brand name IZCARGO®) for a lysosomal storage disorder. JR-141 is the first-ever approved ERT in the world that penetrates the BBB. About JR-141 JR-141 (INN: pabinafusp alfa) is a recombinant fusion protein of an antibody against the human transferrin receptor and iduronate-2-sulfatase, the enzyme that is missing or malfunctioning in subjects with Hunter syndrome. It incorporates J-Brain Cargo®, JCR's proprietary blood-brain barrier (BBB)-penetrating technology, to cross the BBB through transferrin receptor-mediated transcytosis, and its uptake into cells is mediated through the mannose-6-phosphate receptor. This novel mechanism of action is expected to make JR-141 effective against the central nervous system (CNS) symptoms of Hunter syndrome. In non-clinical trials, JCR has confirmed both high-affinity binding of pabinafusp alfa to transferrin receptors and passage across the BBB into neuronal cells. In addition, JCR has confirmed enzyme uptake in various brain tissues. The company has also confirmed a reduction of substrate accumulation in the CNS and peripheral organs in an animal model of Hunter syndrome.1,2 In several clinical trials of pabinafusp alfa, JCR obtained evidence of reducing heparan sulfate concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid, a biomarker for assessing effectiveness against CNS symptoms; these results were consistent with those obtained in pre-clinical studies.3 Clinical studies have also demonstrated the positive effects of pabinafusp alfa on CNS symptoms.4,5,6 About Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II (Hunter Syndrome) Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II, or Hunter syndrome) is an X-linked recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency of iduronate-2-sulfatase, an enzyme that breaks down complex carbohydrates called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs, also known as mucopolysaccharides) in the body. Hunter syndrome, which affects an estimated 2,000-3,000 individuals worldwide (according to JCR research), gives rise to a wide range of somatic and neurological symptoms. The current standard of care for Hunter syndrome is enzyme replacement therapy. Central nervous system symptoms related to MPS II have been unmet medical needs so far. About JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (TSE 4552) is a global specialty pharmaceutical company that develops treatments that go beyond rare diseases to solve the world's most complex healthcare challenges. We continue to build upon our 50-year legacy in Japan while expanding our global footprint into the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. We improve patients' lives by applying our scientific expertise and unique technologies to research, develop, and deliver next-generation therapies. Our approved products in Japan include therapies for the treatment of growth disorder, MPS II (Hunter syndrome), Fabry disease, acute graft-versus host disease, and renal anemia. Our investigational products in development worldwide are aimed at treating rare diseases including MPS I (Hurler, Hurler-Scheie and Scheie syndrome), MPS II, MPS IIIA and B (Sanfilippo syndrome type A and B), and more. Our core values – Putting people first, Forging our own path, Always advancing, and Committed to excellence – mean that the work we do benefits all our stakeholders, including employees, partners, and patients. We strive to expand the possibilities for patients while accelerating medical advancement at a global level. For more information, please visit JCR's global website: Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This document contains forward-looking statements that are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control. Forward-looking statements often contain words such as 'believe,' 'estimate,' 'anticipate,' 'intend,' 'plan,' 'will,' 'would,' 'target' and similar references to future periods. All forward-looking statements regarding our plans, outlook, strategy and future business, financial performance and financial condition are based on judgments derived from the information available to us at this time. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to be materially different from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, a deterioration of economic conditions, a change in the legal or governmental system, a delay in launching a new product, impact on competitors' pricing and product strategies, a decline in marketing capabilities relating to our products, manufacturing difficulties or delays, an infringement of our intellectual property rights, an adverse court decision in a significant lawsuit and regulatory actions. This document involves information on pharmaceutical products (including those under development). However, it is not intended for advertising or providing medical advice. Furthermore, it is intended to provide information on our company and businesses and not to solicit investment in securities we issue. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements publicly or to update the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, even if new information becomes available in the future. References 1: Sonoda, et al. A blood-brain-barrier-penetrating anti-human transferrin receptor antibody fusion protein for neuronopathic mucopolysaccharidosis II. Mol. Ther. 2018; 26(5):1366-1374. 2: Morimoto, et al. Clearance of heparin sulfate in the brain prevents neurodegeneration and neurocognitive impairment in MPS II mice. Mol. Ther. 2021; 29(5): 1853-1861. 3: Okuyama, et al. Iduronate-2-sulfatase with Anti-human Transferrin Receptor Antibody for Neuropathic Mucopolysaccharidosis II: A Phase 1/2 Trial. Mol Ther. 2020; 27(2): 456-464. 4: Okuyama, et al. A Phase 2/3 Trial of Pabinafusp Alfa, IDS Fused with Anti-Human Transferrin Receptor Antibody, Targeting Neurodegeneration in MPS-II. Mol Ther. 2021; 29(2): 671-679. 5: Giugliani, et al. Iduronate-2-sulfatase fused with anti-human transferrin receptor antibody, pabinafusp alfa, for treatment of neuronopathic and non-neuronopathic mucopolysaccharidosis II: Report of a phase 2 trial in Brazil. Mol Ther. 2021; 29(7): 2378-2386. 6: Giugliani, et al. Enzyme Replacement Therapy with Pabinafusp Alfa for Neuronopathic Mucopolysaccharidosis II; an Integrated Analysis of Preclinical and Clinical Data. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, Volume 22, Issue 20, 10938.
Business Wire
2 hours ago
- Business Wire
Rio Arriba County Launches Initiative to Combat Health Fragmentation and Improve Community Well-Being
ESPAÑOLA, N.M.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rio Arriba County is taking a significant step forward in addressing the impact of the opioid crisis with the launch of Rio Arriba CONNECT. The local program, powered by Unite Us, the nation's trusted technology partner for integrating health and community-based care, is designed to combat fragmented services and create a seamless network of support for residents. Rio Arriba County has been disproportionately affected by the opioid crisis, and this initiative aims to deliver a comprehensive approach. By addressing the medical, behavioral, and social needs of all residents, it aims to alleviate residents' chances of using substances and support them on a path to recovery. "Rio Arriba CONNECT represents a significant step forward in our efforts to improve community access to essential services,' said Jeremy Maestas, Rio Arriba County Manager. "This innovative tool will enhance our ability to coordinate care, streamline referrals, and ensure our residents receive the support and care they need in a timely and efficient manner. Our goal remains to build a healthier, more resilient county, and Rio Arriba CONNECT is a vital part of that mission.' The CONNECT network launched in New Mexico in 2019. Rio Arriba joins a broad group of local government and healthcare leaders already leveraging Unite Us' closed-loop referral system, including Los Alamos County, Dona Ana County, Bernalillo County and the City of Albuquerque, the city and county of Santa Fe, the WIN (Workforce Integration Network) and their seven-county footprint, and our statewide partnership with Presbyterian Health Services. Reports from Santa Fe County and the City of Santa Fe attest to the platform's effectiveness in coordinating care and enhancing residents' lives. 'Rio Arriba CONNECT symbolizes a pivotal advancement in our shared vision for Rio Arriba County and New Mexico overall," said Erin Willis, director of customer success at Unite Us. "This initiative empowers us to coordinate care with greater effectiveness while fostering deeper, more meaningful relationships among our diverse community partners. By harnessing the invaluable data the platform provides, Rio Arriba County can assess the impact of its efforts and continually elevate services. Together, we can forge a powerful network of support that transforms lives, demonstrating that our strength lies in unity.' The Rio Arriba CONNECT system will function through three key steps: Identification of Needs: Healthcare providers and community organizations can screen residents for non-medical needs such as food insecurity or housing instability. Secure Referrals: If needs are identified, electronic referrals are securely sent to appropriate organizations through Unite Us' secure platform. Closing the Loop: Service providers update the platform with the referral outcome, ensuring referring organizations are aware of the support provided. "We often discuss health equity without acknowledging the critical role of data," said Dr. Ahmed Dadzie, director of Rio Arriba County Health and Human Services. "A platform with AI-powered analytics can help the county identify community needs and allocate resources more effectively." Amber C. Leichtle, LCSW LADAC BACS, added, "Rio Arriba County recognizes the critical role care coordination plays in providing high-quality, client-centered care. This data platform will undoubtedly optimize client outcomes and increase collaboration between providers.' Funding for the Rio Arriba CONNECT initiative comes from opioid allocation funds, aligning with the County Commission and opioid implementation priority of creating a uniform referral system to better support residents impacted by the opioid epidemic. The Rio Arriba Housing Authority sees the platform as a crucial tool for its mission. Having such an innovative platform like Rio Arriba CONNECT will, in collaboration with partners, uphold the RAC Housing Authority's mission," said Lorrie Leyba, director of the Rio Arriba Housing Authority. "United on this platform, we can ensure resources to help eligible households with financial assistance for rent, utilities, and other housing-related costs. This can prevent evictions, make housing more affordable, and rapidly rehouse those in need." All non-profit community-based organizations can use Unite Us' platform free of charge. To learn more, visit About Rio Arriba County: In 1997, upon discovering a growing and seemingly localized opioid epidemic Rio Arriba County established the Rio Arriba Health and Human Services (RAHHS), the first county-run health and human services department in the state of New Mexico. It serves all county residents, but staff specifically reach out to individuals experiencing substance use disorder who have survived overdose at the local hospital, and to individuals presenting with opioid use disorder (OUD) who are identified at the jail, by law-enforcement, or before a court. RAHHS has led innovative programs and ways of providing services to the community where jail diversion is at every intercept point through a county-led network of provider agencies connected through outcome-based case management. About Unite Us: Unite Us is the nation's premier technology provider for integrating health and community-based care. Our advanced product suite is used to proactively coordinate services using data-driven insights, streamline referral and case management, and facilitate eligibility assessments and reimbursements across government, healthcare, health plans, and community organizations. The first of its kind, our closed-loop referral system prioritizes privacy and dignity and has integrated data and analytics tools used to measure impact, optimize programs, and shape policy. With over 1.7M services, we host the nation's largest network of community-based health and economic services dedicated to improving whole-person health. Learn more at and LinkedIn.
