Melbourne's Email-Friendly Forest

In Melbourne, Australia, trees aren't just silent observers of city life—they have their own email addresses. Over 70,000 trees across the city can receive messages from anyone around the world, creating an unexpected connection between people and plants.

A Root-Level Communication System

The city originally created this system for a practical purpose. Officials wanted community members to help track tree damage. If someone spotted a sick or damaged tree while walking through Melbourne, they could simply email that specific tree. This would help the city quickly identify and fix problems.

To make this possible, Melbourne created an interactive map showing all the city's trees. Each tree on the map has its own email address.

Branches of Conversation

What city planners didn't expect was how personal these communications would become. Instead of just damage reports, the trees started receiving heartfelt messages and stories from people worldwide.

One couple wrote to thank a tree for bringing them together decades ago. They had both chosen to rest in its shade on the same day, leading to a chance meeting and a lifetime together.

Another woman shared that her grandmother had planted one of the city's most beloved golden elms 80 years ago. That tree is now among the biggest and most popular in Melbourne.

Leafy Pen Pals

The trees have received all kinds of messages. People send tree-related jokes, ask for wisdom from older trees, and simply have fun with the idea. The communication comes from locals and from people across the globe.

What makes this even more special is that the trees write back! City staff respond on behalf of the trees, giving each one a unique personality. These exchanges have created a delightful way for people to connect with nature.

Growing Community Roots

While love notes and puns weren't part of the original plan, they've become a welcome addition. The email system still serves its first purpose—helping monitor tree health—but it now does much more.

The program has grown into something that builds community spirit and encourages people to care for their leafy neighbors. Melbourne officials now support these good-natured messages as a wonderful way for people to connect with the natural world around them.

So next time you're in Melbourne, consider sending a friendly note to a tree. You might just get a response that brightens your day.