Mass tree-planting to ‘capture tonnes of CO2’

In an impressive effort to combat climate change, the North East Community Forest has successfully planted nearly 300,000 trees over the past year, potentially absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The initiative, supported by a dedicated group of volunteers, also included the planting of hedgerows across various locations in Northumberland, Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, and rural County Durham.

According to the group, these newly planted trees are expected to capture approximately 51,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide within the next 30 years. Over 2,000 individuals actively participated in this monumental endeavor.

Ross Weddle, the chairman of the North East Community Forest, expressed the group’s commitment to enhancing the region’s greenery and woodland spaces. “Woodlands and green spaces are the beating heart of so many of our communities,” he stated.

The project has received support from six local councils in the region. Juna Sathian, the climate and transport representative for Newcastle City Council, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The creation of these new woodlands is vital in our efforts to tackle climate change, enhance air quality, and create happier and healthier places to live, work, and visit.” She also encouraged landowners interested in planting trees to reach out to the forest group for collaboration.

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