ITPI

About Us

Dr Anand Persad Director of Research, Science and Innovation ACRT Services

Anand Persad PhD, BCE. : Founder/ Director of Research

Dr Anand B. Persad is an industry-based researcher in green space health and advocacy. He actively works internationally with the community and human element and addresses concerns in right's of ways, urban canopied and natural areas. Dr Persad also focuses on biodiversity metrics and aims to provide science backed solutions to government agencies, conservation associations and local communities alike.

Dr Persad is an invited and regular speaker at many national conferences including TCIA, ISA, Trees & Utilities and CEATI. Dr Persad has been an invited speaker at UN- FAO conferences on biodiversity, tree biomechanics and tree stability with changing weather patterns in global communities. He is an avid researcher and thought leader in abiotic and biotic effects on tree risk and reliability associated with wood material strength.

Green

Trees play a vital role in urban environments, improving air quality, reducing stormwater runoff, mitigating heat island effects, and enhancing aesthetics, which supports mental health and well-being. Urban tree canopies (UTC) also provide essential habitats for wildlife to forage, nest, and find refuge.

To fully realize the economic and ecological benefits of UTC, trees and green spaces must thrive. However, limited planting materials and seedstock pose challenges. Securing future stock is as crucial as meeting current demands to support remediation, conservation, and the expansion of UTC initiatives

Community

Communities play a crucial role in fostering healthier urban tree canopies (UTC) that prioritize resilience and long-term success, ensuring maximum ecological, social, and economic benefits. Collaborative efforts can help establish UTC initiatives that are better adapted to changing environments and urban challenges.

To achieve this, it is essential to learn from past experiences and integrate ancestral intelligence into modern practices. Documenting lessons learned and reintroducing archived knowledge can guide decision-making and improve outcomes.

Technology

Innovation in the green industry, especially through Artificial Intelligence, enables the creation of scalable tools to address existing challenges and improve efficiency. With changing climates and erratic weather, understanding urban tree performance—stability, survivorship, and ecological benefits—is critical. By studying tree health under biotic and abiotic pressures, we can enhance urban tree programs. International collaboration and shared databases on tree performance, especially for non-native ornamentals, are vital for advancing urban tree canopy goals, climate abatement, and healthier cities for communities.

Awards and Industry Activities

Dr. Persad focus is on leadership in moving collaboration and technology initiatives forward. Here are some of his achievements over the years

Recipient of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) L.C. Chadwick Award for Excellence in Arboriculture Research (2021)

Chair of the Research Committee of the Utility Arborist Association (UAA 2018 to present)

Chair of the Science and Research Committee of the International Society of Arboriculture (SRC-ISA)- Current