Wednesday 18-12-2019 - 00:00

The Forest of the Future project continued this Michaelmas term and made incredible progress. 

Launched by the students' union Sustainability Team back in 2017 in collaboration with the university, the Forest of the Future project has grown from strength to strength following its initial proposal by Dr Andy Jarvis, and this term was no exception.

Michaelmas Snapshot ⚡

🌳 650 trees

🌱 1500 garlic bulbs

🌼 500 bluebell bulbs

👫 80 students & staff

🌍 Thanks to the fantastic teams of staff and student volunteers, the area just east of campus is gradually transforming back into native woodland, conducive to thriving ecosystems and sequestering carbon from the atmosphere. Since the start of term, an incredible number of students have taken part and enjoyed some refreshing and rewarding planting up in Quernmore Valley. In addition to the positive environmental impacts, the project is the perfect opportunity for students to take some time out from their studies, enjoy the refreshing qualities the rural area has to offer and a rewarding experience among fellow students. 

 

The 650 native deciduous trees procured this November are in addition to the 2000 trees planted in March 2019. On Monday 25th November alone, over 20 student volunteers planted 250 deciduous trees ranging from birch to holly and oak. This vital project is restoring natural ecosystems to the Quernmore Valley, helping with flood water retention along the Conder river system and sequestrating carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as a key response to the climate & ecological crises. 

The challenges presented by the climate crisis can often leave individuals feeling helpless. Students and young people, in particular, face the prospect of an unpredictable future in a warming world, thus it is imperative that students have opportunities to feel empowered and make a difference.

The students' union will continue to co-facilitate the project in the new year, so if you're interested in taking part be sure to follow our social media channels for information of upcoming planting sessions.

All sessions are open to all, included free transport, waterproof clothing and equipment, and refreshments in Conder Lodge.