A synthesis of tree retention studies: A systematic review

Abstract

Massive development has led to the felling of tree in urban areas. Despite extensive scientific efforts directed towards research on tree retention have been conducted, there is a lack of research synthesis conducted in previous studies. This paper offers a systematic analysis of 94 original studies in the 20 years between 1999 and 2019. Literature was retrieved through search in Google Scholar, ProQuest, Sage, Scopus, Science Direct and Web of Science. The aim of the paper was to explore the determinant of the research, context, themes and retention determination, and thus point to gaps and needs in research. Main finding discusses the nearly all studies were conducted in forest settings suggested the future research may provide an analysis of the quality of information related to tree retention in the urban context. The study provides insights into the determinants of tree retention and stresses the need for adequate tree protection during development.