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Universities and students are leaving a lasting green legacy for climate, wildlife, and our communities

Universities are actively participating in community tree planting through TCV’s impactful I Dig Trees programme. This initiative allows universities, student unions, and any community group connected with the university to claim free trees for planting, creating a lasting green legacy for graduate leavers and staff. 

Universities and departments can claim trees if they have space for planting or, if they prefer, they can fund trees which will be happily planted by our fantastic network of UK community groups creating nature-friendly pocket forests, bringing wildlife directly to community doorsteps. 

Celebrate Graduates with a Green Gift

Celebrate student graduation events with a tangible, environmentally friendly gift that benefits the local environment whilst addressing wider global issues such as climate change and biodiversity decline. This is a fantastic way to mark this significant milestone for the students, with a positive impact for wildlife and tree planting resonates with both domestic and international students. 

I Dig Trees University Graduate Tree Planting

Universities are already planting trees with I Dig Trees

Swansea University has taken a new step toward a greener future, planting hundreds of trees, one for each student graduating from its School of Biosciences, Geography and Physics and their dedicated Tree Society hopes to expand the program to include all future graduates. 

Teifion Maddocks, Sustainability Manager at Swansea University, said:  

“Not only does this initiative add a new and meaningful dimension to our graduation celebrations, but it also contributes to the health of our planet and the wellbeing of future generations. 

No matter their next steps, we’re thrilled to give our graduates a unique opportunity to leave behind a tangible legacy of their time at Swansea University, one that helps us combat the effects of climate change. 

It’s vital in this climate and ecological emergency that we collectively act to decarbonise current carbon emissions and stop environmental impacts whilst simultaneously compensating for present greenhouse gases and restoring nature. The Graduation Tree Planting initiative supports the University’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2035 and our Nature Positive targets.” 

Simple to Set Up and Expertly Managed 

The process is super simple and expertly managed by TCV, the leaders in community tree planting. Since 2015, TCV have successfully delivered the largest UK community tree planting programme, planting millions of trees to date and working with thousands of communities and dedicated tree planters. Our expertise ensures that every step, from funding to planting, is seamless and efficient for you. 

I Dig Trees planting by numbers stats 2024

Mixed Variety Tree Packs 

TCV only plant trees here in the UK, providing mixed variety tree packs that are great for wildlife, ensuring maximum benefit for our cherished green spaces and the wildlife within. These packs include a diverse selection of native species, carefully chosen to support local ecosystems and enhance biodiversity. 

Comprehensive Support 

If universities want to get involved in tree planting, TCV offers expert training and advice on tree planting events. From initial advice on which tree pack to choose to the final planting event, our team of experts is on hand to provide guidance and advice. We offer training videos and resources to ensure that every tree planting event is a success. We all want these trees to thrive!

Learn more about I Dig Trees and the benefits of planting trees in your community 

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Community Engagement 

Our programme not only benefits the environment but also fosters community engagement. By involving local groups and university communities, we create a sense of ownership and pride in the green spaces we develop together. 

See the Impact 

Interested parties can see where the trees have been planted and the impact we have all made together so far here. 

Get Involved 

Interested universities and colleges can find out more about joining the I Dig Trees programme by heading here.  

If you have any questions about the programme don’t hesitate to get in touch: IDT@tcv.org.uk

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