Applications open for free trees in school grounds
The Orchard project is now in its third year, and has already delivered almost 1,100 fruit trees to British schoolyards.
Run by Veolia, the project has also introduced 780 strawberry plants, with 291 schools benefitting from the scheme since it began in 2022.
Initially launched to help young people get first hand experience of the benefits of engaging with nature, and boost local biodiversity by planting fruit trees. The second year, 2023, expanded on this to include more species types, with strawberries chosen to ensure urban schools with limited green space could also get involved. Schools now have until 8th November to apply to participate in Veolia Orchard, with five trees or ten strawberry plants available per institution.
‘The Veolia Orchard scheme is about growing more than just fruit; it’s about cultivating a love of nature in our future environmental ambassadors,’ said Pascal Hauret, Municipal Managing Director at Veolia. ‘I am especially happy to see this initiative continue to flourish in urban schools where there are typically fewer opportunities to interact with the environment. Not only are we boosting biodiversity by introducing new fruit tree species, creating habitats for pollinators, and enhancing the genetic diversity of cities with urban farming, we’re planting the seeds for a more sustainable future.’
Last month, Environment Journal reported on the Green Finance Institute and climate charity Ashden launching a new funding system to support net zero transition in schools. The scheme will accelerate the rollout of solutions and open access to billions in private and public financing.
More on climate change and net zero:
Health Innovation East announces free webinar on NHS net zero transition
Health Innovation East announces free webinar on NHS net zero transition
Image: Veolia