06:00, 16 July 2024
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Yesterday, The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales (WTSWW) announced plans to begin restoring lost Atlantic rainforest in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Historically, rainforests once blanketed the west coast of Britain, but over centuries, they were depleted, leaving only fragments of their existence today. WTSWW is trying to fix that with the plans of enhancing habitats and restoring temperate rainforest near the Pembrokeshire coast, efforts are underway at Trellwyn Fach.
In a statement, Sarah Kessell, Chief Executive at WTSWW said: “We’re delighted this rainforest restoration project at Trellwyn Fach can get started. This site is ideally situated in the Gwaun valley, already connected to Celtic rainforest remnants and giving us the opportunity to buffer and extend this amazing habitat as well as improving access for the local community. These are exciting times!”
The initiative at Trellwyn Fach is a component of The Wildlife Trusts' Atlantic rainforest recovery program, backed by a generous £38 million contribution from insurance company Aviva, and their support enabling the restoration of temperate rainforests in areas where they used to grow along the damper, western climes of the British Isles.
Leah Ramoutar, Director of Environmental Sustainability, Aviva, commented on the partnership: “We’re proud to see the Wildlife Trust add another site to the rainforest restoration project, helping Wales become more climate ready. The site in Trellwyn Fach will connect with existing examples of this precious habitat, reestablishing natural corridors to benefit wildlife and add more natural beauty to this stunning part of Wales. It will also provide flood resilience to nearby homes and businesses as well as green jobs and volunteering opportunities to the local community.”
Communities in Pembrokeshire will be closely involved in the project, with plans for volunteering, educational and employment opportunities, as well as improved access to nature. Further rainforest restoration projects have been announced in Devon, North Wales and the Isle of Man.
Lead photo credit to Ben Porter.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. This is the largest charitable organisation working exclusively on all aspects of wildlife conservation in south and west Wales. Learn more here.
Eden Restoration Projects. This is a charity that works with local communities on a range of reforestation and conservation projects all over the world. Find out more here.
One Tree Planted. This is a non-profit that plants trees all over the world, with one dollar donation equals to one tree planted. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Climate Action, Life On Land, Partnerships For The Goals.
