3 minute read
Queens Green Canopy
Businesses in Hertfordshire are being encouraged to get involved in a pioneering green project to celebrate the Queen’s 70-year jubilee.
County in both our towns and rural areas.
Herts firms invited to join tree-planting scheme
Launched in May 2021, The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) is a unique tree-planting initiative created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. It invites people from across the UK to “Plant a Tree for the Jubilee.”
The general public, scouts and girl-guiding groups, villages, cities, counties, schools and corporates are being encouraged to play their part to enhance the environment by planting trees from October 2021 to March 2022, and from October 2022 to March 2023 – the key season when tree-planting takes place. With a focus on planting sustainably, QGC encourages the planting of trees to create a legacy in honour of the Queen’s leadership of the nation – a legacy that will benefit future generations. As well as inviting the planting of new trees, QGC aims to dedicate a network of 70 ancient woodlands across the UK and identify 70 ancient trees to celebrate Her Majesty’s 70 years of sterling service. Ian Pigott OBE, the Deputy Lieutenant lead for Hertfordshire on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant, Robert Voss, CBE, CStJ is leading this innovative project and urging businesses in the county to get involved. He says: “It would be fantastic if Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce members and other businesses in the county could join us on this project. There are so many different ways in which businesses can get involved. “If they have access to their own grounds, they could plant some trees. If not, perhaps they could seek out land close to their business – a site on the grounds of a local school, for example. Local district councils could help to identify suitable sites nearby. “Also, it would be great if Hertfordshire businesses could actively encourage their employees to get involved. People could plant a tree in their garden or ask their local scouts or girl guides if they’d like to participate. Local schools and community groups who are inspired by the QGC can also apply for The Woodland Trust’s free tree pack scheme, which is now open for applications. The tree packs come in different sizes to suit spaces from small urban areas to larger rural spaces and hedgerow-type spaces. “Businesses can also make a financial donation to support the project; any contribution would be much appreciated. “Our QGC ambition in Hertfordshire is to celebrate with tree plantings across every corner of the county in both our towns and rural areas. We’re working with the Chamber, local authorities and other organisations to spread the word about this fantastic project and bring as many people as possible with us on this journey.” The Patron of QGC is His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, who for more than 50 years has used his unique position to champion action for a sustainable future. In the context of global challenges which include the climate crisis, deforestation and ocean pollution, The Prince has promoted sustainability to ensure that the natural assets upon which we all depend – soil, water, forests, a stable climate and fish stocks among other things – endure for future generations. Whilst QGC is a national project, it can help to transform local communities, making them greener, moreenvironmentally friendly places in which to live and work. Ian says: “Anything that Herts Chamber and its members can do to get the word out there would be much appreciated. The QGC is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Her Majesty’s extraordinary reign, and leave a legacy for generations to come.”
