This week Galway Bay FM looked at National Tree Day with the Tree Council’s spokesperson Éanna Ní Lamhna, as they call on primary school children across Galway to plant a tree.
Did you know…
- SPAR National Tree Day is taking place in Thursday, 7th October.
- The campaign, which is supported by the Tree Council, gives children, parents and teachers the opportunity to put down the books, get outdoors and connect directly with nature.
- In the lead up to National Tree Day, schools are being encouraged to claim free saplings to plant a tree and learn about why ‘Trees Are Good Neighbours’
- The theme for this year’s campaign is “Trees are Good Neighbours” and aims to encourage primary school children and their families to think more about the important role trees play in supporting the environment and the biodiversity found in and under the tree.
- There are 1,500 Native Irish Wild Cherry tree saplings available through the campaign website for primary schools to plant on their school grounds, or in a pot in the classroom
Why planting native is trees so important?
- Native trees are well adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them more likely to thrive and require less maintenance.
- They provide habitat and food sources for native wildlife, supporting biodiversity and helping to maintain healthy ecosystems.
- Native trees help prevent soil erosion and improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and filtering pollutants from runoff.
- They contribute to carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
- Planting native trees can also help preserve cultural and historical connections to the land, as many native tree species have significance in local traditions and folklore.
What can I do to help support afforestation efforts?
- Participate in tree-planting events or volunteer with organisations dedicated to afforestation.
- Donate to organizations that focus on planting trees and restoring forests.
- Educate yourself and others about the importance of afforestation and spread awareness.
- Support sustainable forestry practices and products made from responsibly sourced wood.
- Practice sustainable living by reducing your own carbon footprint and supporting initiatives that promote reforestation.
Here’s a few websites if you want to know more!
- Treeday.ie www.treeday.ie
- Tree Council of Ireland www.treecouncil.ie
- Gov.ie https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/a53e3-european-commission-approves-afforestation-measures-in-forestry-programme-2023-2027/
