NEW CARBON OFFSET PROGRAMME FROM GROW

Many organisations are looking to reduce their carbon footprint and help invest in a more sustainable future.  This new initiative from Grow at Brogdale helps companies offset their carbon whilst also supporting schools and community groups.

Using fruit trees to reduce carbon

Amazing fact – an acre of apple trees can absorb 10-20 tonnes of carbon a year (depending on the age and size of the trees).  Furthermore they can release 15 tonnes of oxygen into the environment.

In addition, did you know that 90% of our fresh fruit and vegetables in the UK are imported.  So, by planting orchards you can also make a difference by reducing the need to import as much and to enjoy fruit as nature intended eating in season!

Currently, there are many schemes and opportunities to plant native trees, which are widely available through the Woodland Trust etc. However, there is also a humanitarian advantage to planting fruit trees. An improvement in mental well-being is widely documented where there is the provision of a green space. Being able to enjoy not only the changing seasons, from blossom to fruit, but also to enjoy wildlife attracted to fruit trees, from the humble ladybird to an endangered butterfly.

How businesses can get involved

Grow is inviting environmentally responsible companies (and individuals) to “sponsor” fruit trees that are then donated to schools and community groups.  The trees are then grafted and grown by Grow who have an extensive waiting list of schools, pre-schools and community groups who would love fruit trees!

Grow is working in partnership with the Sustainable Food Trust and the Harmony Project who will help ensure the fruit trees not only provide a green space for students and local communities, but form part of a wider educational package.  They are a living resource which will beautifully (and deliciously) demonstrate seasonality and sustainability twhilst helping to reduce carbon footprints.

An important factor to take into account when deciding whether or not to invest in green schemes is that not only are businesses able to benefit from the reduction in their carbon footprint, but also the positive social impact in doing so.

Why Grow at Brogdale

Grow is the on-site fruit tree nursery based at Brogdale Farm, which is home to the National Fruit Collection. The Collection boasts the largest collection of fruit trees in the world, with over 2,400 apple varieties alone!

Grow helps to regenerate these unique and heritage trees by grafting them.  Through this work they are able to replicate the DNA exactly, ensuring that these special varieties will be around for future generations to enjoy.

More information

To register your interest and find out more, click on the link here.