🌵 Petition to Cool Arizona: Let Inmates Help Restore Our Land

To: Arizona State Legislature, Governor Katie Hobbs, Arizona Department of Corrections, and Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management

We, the undersigned, call for the creation of a statewide initiative that empowers incarcerated individuals to participate in supervised environmental restoration projects across Arizona. This includes building half-moon water catchers, planting shade trees, and restoring desert ecosystems—especially during cooler months when outdoor labor is safer and more effective.

 

📣 Why This Matters

Arizona is experiencing record-breaking heat, with temperatures regularly exceeding 110°F. This isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s deadly. Heat-related illnesses are rising, energy costs are soaring, and outdoor life is becoming unbearable. Meanwhile, incarcerated individuals often lack access to meaningful rehabilitation, job training, or purpose.

This initiative would address both challenges by transforming punishment into restoration—and by cooling Arizona’s cities and deserts in a cost-effective, sustainable way.

 

🛠️ What We Propose

A seasonal work program (October–April) for incarcerated individuals to build water catchers and plant native, drought-tolerant trees under supervision
Sentence reduction incentives, certified training, and post-release job pathways in green industries
Partnerships with tribal nations, nonprofits, and local governments to identify priority zones for restoration
Fair treatment, safety standards, and voluntary participation for all involved
 

🌡️ Climate Benefits

Tree canopy reduces surface temperatures by up to 45°F
Water catchers recharge soil and support long-term vegetation
Green spaces lower urban heat islands and improve air quality
Restored land absorbs carbon and mitigates climate change
 

📊 Arizona’s Heat Crisis

In 2024, Phoenix experienced 113 consecutive days of 100°F or higher—the longest streak ever recorded
Maricopa County saw 645 heat-related deaths in 2023; projections for 2025 suggest up to 1,200 deaths
In 2025, Phoenix hit 99°F in March, with triple-digit days starting in April, 10–20°F above normal
The urban heat island effect adds up to 5°F more in Phoenix compared to surrounding rural areas
 

🌳 Tree Canopy Cooling Power

A 1% increase in urban tree canopy can reduce land surface temperatures by 0.32°F
On the hottest days, tree canopy can reduce air temperatures by up to 3.2°F
Shade from trees can lower surface temperatures by up to 45°F
Tree transpiration and shading improve air quality, reduce ozone levels, and protect lungs from heat stress
 

💚 Social Benefits

Reduces recidivism through purpose-driven rehabilitation
Empowers communities without burdening taxpayers
Creates a legacy of healing—for the land and for lives
 

Arizona’s heat won’t wait. Let inmates help cool our state.

Let’s turn punishment into healing, and desert into life. Let’s cool Arizona—together.

Sign below to support a greener, fairer, and cooler Arizona.