In celebration of National Tree Planting Day, which falls on March 12 each year, Shanghai has launched a green initiative offering a plethora of over 20,000 trees for adoption, announced by the Shanghai Landscaping and City Appearance Administrative Bureau.

The city's two major forest parks, Shanghai Gongqing Forest Park and Shanghai Binjiang Forest Park, have joined the cause by presenting over 800 trees for adoption to enthusiastic residents and nature lovers.

Shanghai Gongqing Forest Park boasts a selection of six tree options, including cherry blossoms, peach blossoms and purple wisterias, while Shanghai Binjiang Forest Park offers bald cypress trees, camphor trees and cherry blossom trees. Prices for adopting these trees range from 200 to 500 yuan ($27.6 to 69) per tree, varying based on the species chosen.

To make the adoption process convenient, both forest parks have made online adoption available. Adopters will receive an electronic adoption certificate and card, valid for a one-year adoption period, allowing them to contribute to the city's greenery and environmental sustainability.

In addition to the forest parks' initiatives, each district's greening department has also opened up trees for adoption, considering their management and availability. For instance, Jing'an district is offering 645 trees for adoption, while Fengxian district provides an offering of 1,460 trees for interested adopters.

Moreover, Yangpu district has listed 21 trees aged between 80 and 100 years for adoption. Jing'an district has also joined in by offering 53 trees of similar age for adoption, providing a chance for residents to care for and preserve these historical green assets.

Beyond tree planting and adoption efforts, Shanghai has unveiled a range of voluntary greening initiatives, including afforestation, nurturing and protection of green spaces, natural conservation projects, facility construction and volunteer services. These initiatives aim to engage the community in environmental conservation and promote a sustainable and eco-friendly urban environment for all residents to enjoy.

Li Junfeng contributed to this story.