Tree protection on construction sites – knowledge and perception of Polish professionals

A total of 128 Polish professionals (active and future designers, construction employees, and public officials) were questioned about their awareness and experience of tree protection practice in a survey conducted during tree diagnostic training sessions. According to the experienced professionals, trees were not protected at all in a significant proportion of projects. In the experience of nearly two thirds of professionals, trees on construction sites were protected in less than 60% of the projects in which they were involved. Half of respondents estimated that in over 60% of the projects where any protection was applied it was insufficient. Constraints related to the shape of the construction site, lack of funds, and insufficient knowledge were the main factors leading to the lack of tree protection. The main reason for any tree protection being in place was the legal regulations. Although respondents did not perceive the regulations as a source of knowledge, they believed that effective enforcement of penalties could be one crucial way to protect trees on construction sites, alongside specialist support. According to the results of the survey, awareness of the value of trees did not lead to tree protection. Respondents rated highly their knowledge about the influence of soil properties on tree survival and development, the growth and reaction of trees to damage, and tree protection in construction projects, but nevertheless admitted that they lacked knowledge of the technical issues of tree protection.