Plant a Tree for Free in Cornwall: Time Running Out to Help Fight Climate Crisis

Schools, sports clubs, and community groups in Cornwall are being urged to take advantage of the Woodland Trust’s free tree planting scheme.

This initiative is part of the effort to combat the climate and nature crisis. With the application deadline for the autumn delivery window closing on 26 August, time is running out to secure saplings for planting.

Join the Green Movement in Cornwall

Since its inception in 2010, the Woodland Trust has given away an astonishing 15 million saplings through its free tree scheme. This effort aims to help the UK meet its 2050 carbon net-zero targets by boosting nature, combating flooding, providing shelter, and reducing pollution.

In the spring delivery of March 2024, Cornwall alone saw 10,905 saplings planted. These trees are set to make a significant impact on the local environment and communities.

Steve Shill, the Woodland Trust’s senior project lead, emphasised the simplicity and significant impact of planting trees. “Planting trees is such a simple action, but the collective impact can make a huge difference to people and the planet,” he said.

Benefits Beyond the Environment

Trees not only benefit the environment but also unite communities, inspire pride, and provide significant mental health benefits. Schools, sports clubs, and faith groups are encouraged to get involved, even if they don’t have space to plant on their grounds. Steve suggested partnering with local community groups or councils to plant trees in public spaces.

Award-winning children’s author Lauren Child recently visited a school that participated in the scheme, highlighting the educational benefits for schoolchildren learning about the environment.

Easy Application Process

The application process to secure saplings is straightforward. Interested groups can visit the Woodland Trust’s website to fill out a form and ensure their trees are on the way. The Trust delivers hundreds of thousands of free trees twice a year for planting in spring and autumn. Tree packs come in various sizes and varieties, including hedging, copse, wildlife, or wild harvest.

The scheme is generously funded by lead partners Sainsbury’s, Lloyds Bank, OVO, Bank of Scotland, and Sofology. Steve acknowledged the crucial support of these funders, stating, “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.”

Don’t Miss Out, Cornwall

With the application deadline for the autumn delivery fast approaching, now is the time for schools, sports clubs, and community groups in Cornwall to take action. By planting free trees, they can contribute to the fight against the climate and nature crisis while reaping the numerous benefits trees provide.

For more information and to apply, visit the Woodland Trust’s website.