The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and OVO Energy are on an ‘I Dig Trees’ mission with UK communities to reach 2 million trees planted by springtime next year.
Individuals and community groups can register for a share of the 600,000 FREE trees available this year, which will be delivered this tree planting season (November – March), along with instructions as to how to plant trees and aftercare to give them their best hope of thriving. All trees supplied by I Dig 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, at the same time as encouraging community volunteers to engage with their local green spaces; bringing thousands of people together to reduce social isolation, improve mental health and help to rebuild or strengthen community connections after covid restrictions.
I Dig Trees planting will commence during COP26, the 26th United Nations Climate Change conference, to be held in Glasgow in November under the presidency of the United Kingdom. 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.
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.”
Dr Rebecca Heaton, Director of Sustainability, OVO Energy, said:
“Tree planting is essential in storing carbon, reconnecting people with nature and helping the UK deliver on our net zero target. Planting two million trees is a step towards rebalancing the natural world at a time when we all need to be working together ahead of COP26. We hope that in setting this goal we are encouraging people to join us in supporting our communities in order for all ecosystems to thrive.”