Which guideline promotes street tree protection in urban forestry?

The guideline that promotes street tree protection in urban forestry is centered on setting pruning standards for urban trees. Pruning is a crucial aspect of tree care, especially in urban environments where trees are subject to various stresses, such as limited space, pollution, and damage from construction activities. By establishing specific pruning standards, municipalities can ensure that trees are maintained in a way that promotes their health, safety, and structural integrity.

Proper pruning not only enhances the aesthetic value of street trees but also mitigates potential hazards associated with poorly maintained trees, such as limb failure or obstruction of pedestrian pathways. Moreover, adherence to these standards can help sustain the longevity and ecological function of trees within the urban landscape.

In contrast, the other options are less directly related to the protection of street trees. Encouraging green spaces adjacent to commercial areas can contribute to overall urban forest health but does not directly address the care and maintenance of existing street trees. Mandating public inspections of residential trees may help with tree care in residential settings but doesn't focus on the specific challenges faced by street trees. Allowing unrestricted development near trees can pose significant risks, leading to soil compaction, root damage, and other detrimental effects that threaten the health and stability of street trees.