Meters for Trees

Reduce Your Hardware for a Greener Future

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Launched in the UK in 2019, Meters for Trees is a revolutionary initiative that promotes sustainability by removing or decommissioning parking meters. Cities, universities, and parking operators can reduce costs, support cleaner air, and leave a lasting green legacy - all by encouraging mobile parking payments.

We are excited to bring this programme to North America. As of 2024, for every multi-space meter removed or ten-single space meters, PayByPhone commits to planting one tree. This is done through our partner, veritree, a data-driven, restorative platform that connects nature-based solutions with mission-driven companies ready to lead the restorative economy.

Beyond reforestation, switching to mobile payments can improve air quality by reducing the need for collection and maintenance vehicles that emit CO₂ and harmful pollutants. Eliminating these vehicles can decrease greenhouse gas emissions, helping mitigate respiratory issues and other environmental impacts. Each tree planted through Meters for Trees further offsets carbon emissions, making cities greener and healthier for future generations.

The benefits

Reduced emissions

Eliminating collection and maintenance vehicles decreases CO₂ and harmful pollutant emissions

Reforestation efforts

One tree is planted for every multi-space meter or ten single-space meters removed

Improved air quality

Fewer maintenance vehicles help mitigate respiratory issues and other environmental impacts

How it works

The city or parking operator works closely

With the PayByPhone team to develop a plan for decommissioning meters

As part of any full or phased meter removal plan

PayByPhone commits to planting one tree for every ten single-space meters or one tree for each multi-space meter removed, in partnership with veritree

PayByPhone provides a comprehensive marketing package

To help inform residents about the initiative and communicate the environmental benefits of switching to mobile payments

For phased removals over a longer period

PayByPhone partners with the city or operator to develop a bespoke plan to drive mobile payment adoption, ensuring a seamless transition and future decommissioning of additional meters