THE Woodland Trust is calling on schools, sports clubs, and community groups in the south of England to join their free tree planting initiative and help fight the climate and nature crisis.
The group’s autumn tree delivery window will close next month, so the trust is urging people across the East of England to apply now.
Trees play a critical role in enhancing biodiversity, reducing flood risks, providing shelter, and mitigating pollution says the trust.
Steve Shill, the Woodland Trust’s senior project lead, said: “Planting trees is such a simple action, but the collective impact can make a huge difference to people and the planet.
“Trees help nature, combat flooding, provide shelter and reduce pollution.
“And they unite communities, inspire pride and bring huge benefits for mental wellbeing.
“It’s a great way for schoolchildren and all sorts of community groups – from sports clubs to faith groups – to learn about the environment and do their bit.
“Every school should have trees, but if you don’t have space to plant, don’t worry – you can still get involved in planting.
“Why not partner with a local community group or council to plant trees in a public space?”
Since it was launched in 2010, the Woodland Trust’s free trees scheme has distributed 15 million saplings across the UK, averaging more than a million trees each year.
In March 2024, the scheme delivered 365,985 trees across the length and breadth of the UK, of which 5,205 came to Berkshire.
The Woodland Trust is now aiming to hit a milestone of 16 million trees and is encouraging communities to apply for the autumn delivery.
The application process to secure a sapling is straightforward.
Interested groups can visit the Woodland Trust’s website and fill out a form for delivery in September.
Tree packs come in packs of 15, 30, 105 or 420 trees and in different varieties to suit hedging, copse, wildlife or wild harvest.
They have been funded by Sainsbury’s, Lloyds Bank, OVO, Bank of Scotland, and Sofology.
Mr Shill added: “As ever, the support and generosity of our funders is crucial; we simply couldn’t do this without them.
“The help each and every one of them provides is hugely appreciated, and ensures we can provide and deliver our saplings in such huge numbers.”
Applications for delivery in September 2024 close on 26 August.
For more information and to apply, visit: www.woodlandtrust.org.uk
