Statement from Thérèse:
"National Tree Week marks the beginning of another crucial planting season and offers a moment for us to reflect on the importance of the trees, woodlands and forests at the heart of our natural landscapes. They protect us against flooding, provide habitats for our precious native wildlife and are nature’s ultimate carbon capture machines. They are an important source of jobs too, directly employing over 30,000 people and contributing more than £2billion to our economy every year.
In the face of climate change and the growing prevalence of pests and diseases, it is imperative that we plant more trees, whilst simultaneously building their resilience. So I am delighted to mark the beginning of National Tree Week 2022 with a major £20million funding package, made possible through our landmark Nature for Climate Fund. Over 100 projects championed by tree nurseries, charities and businesses will be funded to bring the latest innovations to the forestry sector and address some of the greatest threats facing our treescapes. Local authorities across the country will receive significant funding to kickstart tree planting activity, create new green jobs and boost access to nature."
