Tree Cities of the World Highlight: Brazil's Growing National Movement

The second Brazilian Symposium of Tree Cities of the World brought together municipal leaders, technical experts, and urban forestry professionals from across Brazil to Cubatão, São Paulo from 19-22 August, 2026. The gathering built on the momentum of the inaugural symposium held in João Pessoa, Paraíba, which first brought Brazilian Tree Cities together to exchange experiences and celebrate best practices in urban forestry. Since then, the movement has grown nationally with expanding representation across the country.   

In Cubatão, that movement took another significant step forward. The four-day programme featured presentations, technical exchanges, site visits, and dedicated time for municipalities to strengthen partnerships with one another. A highlight of the symposium was the in-person recognition ceremony honoring Brazilian cities designated as Tree Cities of the World, celebrating each municipality's commitment to responsible, sustainable urban forest management. 

The success of the Cubatão symposium reflects the maturation of TCOW Brazil and the growing strength of its network, built under the leadership of national programme lead Sociedade Brasileira de Arborização Urbana (SBAU). Organizers say the momentum has only reinforced their commitment to expanding the programme further and bringing the experience to new cities across the country.