As part of the natural carbon cycle, photosynthesis in plants takes CO2 in the atmosphere and converts it into oxygen and carbon-based plant matter, storing carbon captured from the atmosphere. Trees are significant sources of carbon storage and sequestration because of their size and longevity and provide essential habitat for local fauna. This strategy focuses on the preservation and expansion of tree growth in the City to increase the amount of carbon sequestered in hopes of offsetting CO2 emissions generated by other sources to the extent feasible. Increased carbon sequestration and new tree plantings will also improve air quality through the capture of air pollutants, water quality through reduced erosion, biological resources by providing additional habitat and improved water quality, and community and public health through the provision of shade and positive impacts on mental health.

Implementation of the one measure and three actions through this strategy would reduce the City's emissions by approximately 100 MTCO2e by 2030. The following table outlines the framework for this strategy:

The City is currently developing a plan for the El Cajon Boulevard Streetscape plan to incorporate these goals, see the concept art below: