National Tree Week: A vital celebration for our environment

 

National Tree Week serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of sustainable forestry practices and the conservation of our natural landscapes.

National Tree Week is the largest annual tree celebration in the UK, taking place every year in winter; this year, it is scheduled for 27th November – 5th December 2023. But what is National Tree Week? Do we really need more trees? In fact, why is it necessary to have a tree week at all and does it even make any difference? 

This article aims to answer some of these questions, arguing that National Tree Week is a vital celebration emphasising the significance of trees. It finishes by offering some ideas on how to get involved.

Do we really need more trees?

Unequivocally yes! There has been conflicting information reported by media outlets and conservationists in recent years regarding the efficacy of trees as a means of mitigating carbon in our atmosphere. Some purport the “mind-blowing potential” of trees to tackle the climate crisis while others maintain that planting trees is not the solution. However, most commentators agree on the manifold benefits of trees to make cities more comfortable, have a significant positive societal impact and ultimately provide a wealth of benefits while slowing climate change. 

Moreover, trees can prepare the UK for an uncertain future to bolster our natural defences against a range of climatic disturbances - creating new woodlands is a proven means of mitigating the detrimental effects of climate change, acting as a natural ‘carbon sink’ through the process of photosynthesis. In addition, trees can:

  • Alleviate flooding

  • Maintain soil nutrients

  • Improve water quality

  • Support mental health 

  • Cut pollution and clean air 

  • Stabilise river banks 

  • Connect natural habitats 

  • Keep river temperatures cool

  • Support over 200 species of animals and plants

Many of these factors are expanded on further below in an assessment of what constitutes “the right trees in the right place”. 

We are living in an unprecedented era of human-caused environmental issues. What is the answer?

The Anthropocene: The importance of trees for a better world

We are presently living in an era significantly impacted by anthropogenic (human-caused) activity, to the extent that the Earth's natural ecosystems have been signficantly altered - also known as the “Anthropocene”. This has resulted in innumerable environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, increased pollution and natural resource depletion.

In response to the radically changing needs of people within the world, the United Nations General Assembly established the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to enhance quality of life for individuals and communities. These broad objectives outline the most critical challenges of our time. One logical and effective strategy to achieve some of these goals is to plant and safeguard trees - particularly in urban areas where the majority of all people reside. In fact, it is argued by many that planting trees can help with all 17 SDGs for sustainable development. 

Indeed, trees are renowned for promoting our health and social well-being by purifying air, mitigating psychological stress, overtly (and subconsciously) encouraging us to engage in physical activities, and nurturing positive social connections within communities. Additionally, they are one of the fundaments of a robust economy and can provide a diversity of resources to people in need - directly and indirectly.  

As urban areas continue to experience rising temperatures, trees can help to mitigate this effect, providing habitats and food sources for wildlife. Finally, trees are a valuable component of green infrastructure for managing stormwater - arguably an underrepresented threat to our livelihoods. To navigate this challenging era dominated by human activity, skilled individuals possessing a refined understanding of the built environment and the function trees can play in strategic planning for the future are critical. If investing in trees is a big step towards meeting SDGs, this undoubtedly represents a significant investment towards creating a better world. 

Case study: Butterflies and moths as biodiversity indicators

A Poplar Hawk Moth. Contributor: Phil Harrison. 

Biodiversity - the extensive range of life forms present on Earth - is vital for the health and resilience of our planet's ecosystems and plays a critical role in maintaining their stability and functionality by fostering a complex network of interactions among species. Biodiversity serves to enhance “ecosystem services” - the myriad and diverse benefits to humans provided by the natural environment. These are the fundamental services supporting life, making trees indispensable for our well-being and agriculture. 

Diverse ecosystems typically demonstrate greater adaptability to environmental changes and existential threats, including climate shifts, pests and diseases; moreover, increased biodiversity presents significant potential for scientific and medical advancements, where numerous species offer valuable insights into evolutionary processes and serve as sources for new medicines. Each species on Earth possesses intrinsic value and contributes to the intricate complexity of life that makes this a uniquely habitable and vibrant planet, meaning the preservation of biodiversity can be considered a moral and ethical obligation.  

To demonstrate how trees are vital to biodiversity, it may be appropriate to evaluate butterflies and moths as a case example of the alarming increase in habitat loss, degradation and species decline in the UK and beyond. Butterflies and moths are essential elements of woodland ecosystems, often serving as indicators of manifold accumulations of other invertebrates vital to the health of ecosystems; this collective group offers a broad spectrum of advantages, such as pollination and innate pest management. Generally speaking, with massive insect decline reported across Europe, certain species can be used as indicators of overall ecosystem health; ecologists often employ butterflies as model organisms to understand the effects of habitat loss, fragmentation and the detrimental outcomes of climate change. 

Moreover, butterflies and moths are vital to the food chain, serving as prey for birds, bats and other insectivorous animals, supporting numerous other predators and parasites - many of which are specific to individual species or groups of species. For forty years, the Butterfly Conservation group has collected different species of butterflies and moths as biodiversity indicators to monitor change. Their results showed that numbers have rapidly declined to around 50% since 1976 (as shown in Figure 1 below). 

Figure 1: Graph showing the abundance of butterflies within the wider countryside in woodland, in England, 1990 to 2021. Source: Butterfly Conservation, 2022. 

As detailed by Butterfly Conservation, trees are of paramount importance to butterflies and moths due to their provision of essential habitats and resources that support various stages of their life cycles. There are several reasons why trees are crucial for these insects:

  1. Trees often serve as host plants for numerous moth and butterfly species.

  2. Trees offer shelter and protection to butterflies and moths at various stages of their life cycles. The structure of tree canopies can shield these insects from harsh weather conditions and predators.

  3. Although trees are not typically known for their nectar-producing flowers, many flowering trees produce nectar that can serve as a food source for adult butterflies and moths. 

  4. Trees can play a role in supporting the migratory behaviours of some butterfly species. Monarch butterflies, for instance, rely on trees for roosting during their long migrations. 

  5. Trees in both natural and urban environments create corridors and pathways that facilitate the movement of butterflies and moths to find suitable breeding and feeding sites.

  6. Trees are central components of ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity and overall ecosystem health. Healthy tree populations support diverse insect communities, including butterflies and moths. The presence of these insects in turn contributes to pollination, which is crucial for the reproduction of many plant species.

  7. Trees contribute to nutrient cycling in ecosystems, providing organic matter and contributing to soil fertility. This can indirectly benefit butterflies and moths by supporting the growth of their host plants.

Therefore, if we think of trees as a “supportive framework” sustaining flora and fauna, we can understand their integral role as fundamental life-supporting organisms; however, if we removed these “buttresses” entirely, the cathedral of life would struggle to remain standing. Nonetheless, more trees do not always equate to more life; instead, a more targeted approach to planting that assesses diversity in the landscape is required, from mountain to moorland, bogs to wetlands, and grasslands to heath (See Figure 2 below).

Figure 2: Distribution and diversity of UK ecosystems. Source: BBC, 2023. 

The right trees in the right place

The concept of “the right trees in the right place” may sound clichéd; however, it underscores the essential requirements to protect the habitats of “keystone” and “indicator” species. Therefore, it remains critical that tree species are suited for their specific environment to achieve successful preservation efforts through the following fundamental parameters:

  • Ecosystem suitability: Various tree species possess specific requirements for factors such as soil type, water availability, and climate. Planting trees well-suited to the local conditions ensures a higher probability of survival and successful growth. Conversely, planting trees in unsuitable environments can result in high mortality rates and wasted resources.

  • Biodiversity conservation: Planting native trees naturally found in a particular region helps support the local ecosystem's biodiversity, providing habitat and resources adapted to the local environment and contributing to the overall health and balance of the ecosystem.

  • Habitat restoration: The appropriate tree species can play a critical role in habitat restoration, recreating natural habitats that have been degraded or lost due to human activities. Properly chosen trees can attract native wildlife, promote plant diversity, and aid in soil and water conservation.

  • Prevention of invasive species: Planting non-native or invasive tree species can lead to ecological disruptions. Invasive species can outcompete native plants, disrupt food webs, and alter the structure of ecosystems. By planting the right native trees, the risk of introducing harmful invasive species is minimised.

  • Climate change mitigation: Different tree species sequester varying amounts of carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas responsible for climate change. Planting trees well-suited to a particular area's climate can enhance the ability of forests to sequester carbon and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.

  • Soil and water conservation: Certain tree species possess deep root systems that help prevent soil erosion and improve water retention in soil. Planting such trees in areas prone to erosion or water runoff can help stabilise the soil and enhance water quality.

  • Resilience to environmental changes: Climate change and other environmental challenges can impact ecosystems; however, planting trees adapted to local conditions increases the resilience of ecosystems to these changes. Native trees are more likely to withstand shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns and other environmental stressors.

  • Cultural and aesthetic value: Native trees often have cultural significance to local communities and can enhance the aesthetic beauty of an area. Planting trees meaningful to the local culture and landscape can foster a stronger connection to the environment.

Planting the appropriate trees in the optimal locations is a fundamental principle in conservation as it ensures conservation efforts are effective, ecologically sound and sustainable. By selecting tree species adapted to the local environment and supporting the natural ecosystem, conservationists can maximise the positive impacts of their actions and contribute to the long-term health of both ecosystems and human communities.

Let's think of all life on earth as an interconnected web of species, organisms and ecosystems; we can better appreciate the delicate balance sustaining our planet's biodiversity and the intricate relationships existing within it. Ultimately, the role of trees within ecosystems to support many facets of life is undeniable; therefore, National Tree Week is not just another excuse for fundraising - it is essential to remind us of the critical importance of trees and the small actions we can take to encourage their status in the world. 

National Tree Week runs from 27th November – Tuesday 5th December, 2023.

National Tree Week

The UK National Tree Week (formerly "Plant a Tree") was initially conceptualised in 1973 by the British parliamentarians Sydney Chapman and Peter Walker as a means to promote awareness about Dutch elm disease. Over the years, it has evolved into the largest annual tree celebration in the United Kingdom. Annually, the conservation sector, volunteer groups, and tree enthusiasts unite to plant numerous trees, signifying the commencement of the tree-planting season, which spans from November to March. National Tree Week serves as a precursor to this season.

The Charter epitomises National Tree Week ‘The Charter for Trees, Wood, and People’ was launched by the Woodland Trust in 2017. The inauguration of the Tree Charter marked a momentous milestone for the trees and woodland of the United Kingdom, garnering support from a multitude of entities, including numerous organisations, schools, councils, celebrities, artists and community groups. The 10 Principles of the Tree Charter, as provided by the Woodland Trust, aim to:

  1. Sustain landscapes rich in wildlife

  2. Plant for the future

  3. Celebrate the power of trees to inspire

  4. Grow forests of opportunity and innovation

  5. Protect irreplaceable trees and woods

  6. Plan greener local landscapes

  7. Recover health, hope and wellbeing with the help of trees

  8. Make trees accessible to all

  9. Combat the threats to our habitats

  10. Strengthen our landscapes with trees

Why is Tree Week important?

The UK National Tree Week holds significant importance as it serves as a dedicated time to celebrate the critical role trees play in our environment, culture and well-being. This annual event, typically held in late November, serves as a unifying force for individuals, communities and organisations to come together and actively participate in tree planting and care activities. By emphasising the act of planting trees during this week, the event promotes the expansion of green spaces, the mitigation of climate change through carbon sequestration and the enhancement of biodiversity. 

National Tree Week fosters a sense of stewardship and connection to nature, nurturing a deeper understanding of the myriad benefits trees offer—from providing shade and improving air quality to creating habitats for wildlife. Furthermore, the event serves as a platform to educate and inspire future generations about the importance of trees, cultivating a culture of environmental responsibility. In this manner, UK National Tree Week contributes to the immediate improvement of the landscape and cultivates a lasting legacy of environmental consciousness and sustainability.

Any small contribution to National Tree Week makes a difference.

What can you do?

There are multiple ways of personally contributing to National Tree Week. For example, you can:

  1. Plant

The onset of the winter planting season presents an opportune moment to engage in outdoor activities and engage in planting - trees and hedgerows are formidable weapons in our battle against climate change. Encouragingly, planting a tree is a simple yet effective way for each of us to contribute towards this cause. Whether it be planting a tree in a pot on one's doorstep, a hedge in one's garden, or organising a community event at a local park - every tree planted will aid in the cultivation of a more sustainable future.

It is imperative to carefully examine labels and comprehend the eventual height and spread of the tree that one intends to cultivate, with the optimal period to plant a tree between October and April. Depending on the size of one's outdoor area - whether small or large - numerous tree or plant varieties can absorb carbon. Long-living indigenous species such as oak and maple are highly effective at sequestering carbon dioxide; however, these species have the potential to grow to a considerable size. Therefore, trees such as Hazel, Blackthorn, Crab Apple and Goat Willow are more suitable for smaller spaces. In instances where space is limited, such as on a patio or terrace, trees can be grown in containers to add height, fruit, bark, and autumnal hues to these modest spaces.

How to plant your own trees: 

Engaging the services of a trusted organisation to plant trees on your behalf offers a plethora of benefits that extend beyond individual efforts. Firstly, organisations possess the requisite expertise and resources to ensure tree planting is carried out effectively and efficiently, thereby maximising the positive impact on the environment. By collaborating with established groups, you contribute to larger-scale reforestation efforts that can significantly combat deforestation, mitigate climate change and enhance biodiversity. 

Such partnerships also create public awareness and engagement opportunities, inspiring others to join the cause. Moreover, involving an organisation can provide a sense of accountability and transparency, as they typically provide updates on the progress and outcomes of tree-planting initiatives. Ultimately, harnessing the power of an organisation amplifies your influence, enabling you to make a more substantial and lasting contribution to environmental conservation.

Contributing to tree-planting initiatives and promoting them offers innumerable interconnected benefits that reverberate through both environmental and societal domains. Financial donations provide crucial resources for organisations to undertake large-scale reforestation projects, addressing deforestation, promoting climate resilience and safeguarding biodiversity. By amplifying the message of tree planting, you play a pivotal role in raising awareness about the pressing need for ecological restoration and inspiring collective action. 

Disseminating information through social networks and conversations creates a ripple effect of awareness, encouraging more individuals to support and participate in tree-planting endeavours. As these initiatives gain momentum, they contribute to local communities by generating employment opportunities, improving air quality and enhancing overall well-being. Ultimately, your contributions and advocacy contribute to a more sustainable and verdant future, with a profound impact that extends beyond immediate reforestation to shape a healthier planet for generations to come.

9Trees have multiple events planned for National Tree Week.

What are we doing for National Tree Week?

We have 3 wonderful woodland management days for you to get involved in!

Derbyshire, Norwood

Saturday, November 25: 10:00am – 4:00pm

Brecon, Powys, Wales

Friday December 1st: 10:00am – 4:00pm

Brecon, Powys, Wales

Saturday, December 2: 10:00am – 4:00pm

If you want to sign up for these please use our 9Trees Event Brite

National Tree Week is the UK’s largest annual tree celebration. Each year, the country’s conservation sector, volunteer groups and tree-lovers come together to plant thousands of trees to mark the start of the tree planting season. National Tree Week 2023 is taking place between 27th November – 5th December.

9Trees CIC, EventBrite Link

Conclusion

In conclusion, National Tree Week is vital for several compelling reasons. Firstly, trees play a fundamental role in maintaining the health of our planet. They absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen and help combat climate change by sequestering carbon. Additionally, trees provide essential habitats for wildlife, promote biodiversity and offer numerous economic and social benefits, such as enhancing property values and improving overall quality of life. 

Furthermore, National Tree Week serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of sustainable forestry practices and the conservation of our natural landscapes. It encourages community engagement and environmental stewardship, fostering a sense of responsibility for our environment. National Tree Week is vital because it highlights the critical role trees play in preserving the environment, supports biodiversity and brings people together to take positive action for greener and more sustainable outcomes. 

Therefore, National Tree Week is a yearly call to action to embrace tree planting for a positive future! 

By Neil Insh - Researcher

 
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