Global Experts to Deliberate on the Theme “Growing Cities – Greener Canopies”
Mumbai : In the midst of rapid urbanization, trees are not merely ornamental additions but vital allies in combating climate change, safeguarding public health, and ensuring sustainable development. With this message, the 2nd International Arboriculture Conference (ATCA 2026) will be held in Mumbai.
Organized jointly by the Amenity Tree Care Association (ATCA) and the Nanaji Deshmukh Pratishthan, the conference will take place on March 7 and 8, 2026 at Hotel Sahara Star, Vile Parle (East), Mumbai.
Explaining the rationale behind the event, ATCA Director Vaibhav Raje said, “Rapid urbanization has led to neglect in tree protection and care. It is essential for state governments, municipal corporations, and local bodies to implement strong policies towards improving arboriculture standards, technical education, and urban tree laws.”
ATCA Director Nakul Savani added, “The central theme of the conference is ‘Growing Cities. Greener Canopies.’ Following last year’s theme ‘Our Trees. Our Cities. Our Lives,’ this year’s event marks the next step in recognizing trees not as obstacles to urban growth but as climate allies, health protectors, and critical infrastructure.”
Aryan Pandey, CEO of the Nanaji Deshmukh Prathisthan, emphasized, “This partnership reflects our commitment to building greener and healthier cities for future generations. In a dynamic city like Mumbai, the balance between development and environment can indeed be achieved, and this conference will demonstrate how.”
Key Speakers and Experts
The conference will feature renowned national and international experts, including:
- Carl Dalla Riva – Director, Board of Arboriculture, Australia
- Dan Lambe – CEO, Arbor Day Foundation, USA
- Jessica Sanders – Executive Director, Sacramento Tree Foundation, USA
- Dr. Sangram Chavan – Senior Scientist, National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Baramati
- Dr. Prachi Gupta – Professor, Azim Premji University, Bengaluru
- Vyom Bhatt – Co-Founder, Shroomsabha
- Gabor Goertz – CEO & Co-Founder, Greehill
- Architect Shilpa Gavane – Founder, Trees of Ahmedabad
- And many other distinguished global and Indian experts
Highlights of the Conference
- Hands-on workshops on urban tree management (March 6 – limited seats, venue to be announced soon)
- Sessions on tree protection during construction projects
- Global keynote addresses and panel discussions
- Poster competition for students and researchers (Top 3 awards)
- Presentations on new technologies and research in arboriculture
- Conference participation to all attendees
- Networking dinner on March 7
Special Guests - Chief Guest – Shri. Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra (March 7)
- Architect Alan Abraham, Keynote Speaker (March 7)
- Dia Mirza, Keynote Speaker (March 8)
The conference is open to tree care experts, horticulturists, arborists, architects, urban planners, municipal officials, researchers, students, and environmental enthusiasts.
