Words by Smiley Team
The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and OVO Energy are on a mission with UK communities to reach two million trees planted by spring next year. They've called it: I Dig Trees.
Individuals and community groups can register for a share of the 600,000 trees, which will be delivered this tree planting season (November - March), along with instructions as to how to plant them and aftercare to give them their best hope of thriving. All trees must be planted on publicly accessible land for the benefit of local communities and wildlife.
‘I Dig Trees’ aims to mitigate climate change and increase wildlife habitats across the UK, as well as encouraging community volunteers to engage with their local green spaces; bringing people together to reduce social isolation, improve mental health and help to rebuild or strengthen community connections after covid restrictions.
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The planting will commence during COP26, the 26th United Nations Climate Change conference. The goals of which aim to secure global net-zero by mid-century and adapt to protect communities and natural habitats whilst protecting and restoring ecosystems.
The trees planted will be registered as part The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC), “Plant a Tree for the Jubilee” campaign, celebrating Her Majesty’s 70 years of service in 2022.
Local community groups and volunteers are encouraged to apply for their free trees here: https://www.tcv.org.ukcommunities/i-dig-trees/
Darren York, Chief Executive, The Conservation Volunteers, said: “Nature-based solutions, such as tree planting, have a crucial role to play in tackling the climate and ecological emergency. This year, I Dig Trees will support thousands of volunteers and community groups across the UK to plant a further 600,000 trees – taking us past the two million tree mark since our partnership with OVO Energy began.”
The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) connects people to the green spaces that form a vital part of any healthy, happy community. They bring people together to create, improve and care for green spaces. To find out more and support the charity, visit their website.
You can also out more about The Conservation Volunteers’ charitable work connecting people and green spaces in the video below.
