SIGN UP TO HELP WITH PLANTING TREES & COMMUNITY ORCHARDS BELOW!
Gateshead Liberal Democrats believe planting more trees in our borough can play a vital role in tackling the climate emergency.
A a motion moved by Liberal Democrat leader, Councillor Jonathan Wallace, has been passed by Gateshead Councillors. Councillor Wallace called for the council to identify land for tree planting, create community orchards and work with schools, universities and the voluntary sector to deliver the plan.
Councillor Wallace said:
“Trees are one of the most effective ways to absorb the carbon dioxide produced by burning fossil fuels which causes climate change. There are many areas of open space where the council previously cut the grass but have now been abandoned. Some are turning into wastelands but they could have a new purpose as woodland, making our area greener and acting as a sponge to soak up carbon dioxide."
We also believe good politics is about building communities and bringing people together.
Which is why Gateshead Liberal Democrats believe well planned tree planting schemes in our borough could not only improve our environment, help solve our clean air problems and improve biodiversity but with the involvement of local schools, colleges, universities and community groups we can help bring people together and build stronger communities.
Councillor Wallace, who is a keen advocate for sustainable living and has a smallholding near Sunniside, said: “We cannot sit back and do nothing. We are entering a climate crisis and we need to act now to tackle it or otherwise the damage will get worse and could reach a point of no return.” He has also committed growing hundreds of trees from locally collected seeds and providing them free, once they have grown into saplings, to anyone who would like to plant them and help make Gateshead cleaner and greener.
Community Orchards can help tackle food poverty and encourage healthy eating
Gateshead Liberal Democrats have called for the planting of "Community Orchards" to be part of the tree planting strategy for Gateshead, as evidence shows they are not only a great way to bring communities together to improve the environment but also help people learn new skills, understand more about food production and sustainability whilst also providing a free source of healthy food for communities.
For more information about Community Orchards, please CLICK HERE
If you or the school, college or community group you represent are interested in volunteering to help with tree planting and Community Orchards then please sign up below.
SIGN UP TO HELP WITH PLANTING TREES & COMMUNITY ORCHARDS BELOW:
