New Tree Charter: are you in?

Today sees the launch of 10 guiding principles for the future of trees, woods and people; inspired by more than 60,000 personal stories from members of the UK public.

The stories reflect the importance of trees in our lives.  And the recurring themes will form the bedrock of the new ‘Charter for Trees, Woods and People’ to be launched this November.

The Tree Charter, led by the Woodland Trust with back-up from over 70 organisations, aims to secure a brighter future for woods and trees.  It will celebrate their enormous importance, and provide guidance and inspiration to help shape government policy.

From street trees to countryside hedgerows; and from ambitious saplings to trees steeped in history and folklore: all play an important part in our lives.

Patrick Cregg, director of the Woodland Trust in Northern Ireland, said: “We’re lucky enough to have some remarkable trees, like the iconic Dark Hedges, and we’ve a famously green countryside.  Yet, this landscape is extremely lacking when it comes to woodland: we’re one of the least-wooded countries in the whole of Europe. 

“From the stories shared, it seems that members of the public share our love of, and concern for, Northern Ireland’s trees and woods.  Their benefits to wildlife; health; and the need for better protection and more planting are just some of the common sentiments expressed.

“We’re creating a Charter that puts trees back at the heart of our lives, communities and decision-making – right where they belong.  We’ll use it to provide guidance for policy and as a reminder of the everyday benefits that we all gain from having woods and trees in our lives.”

The 10 themes, or chapters, that will make up the Charter are:                          

Principles:                                                       

1. Nature                                                 

2. Planting                                                                                                            

3. Arts and Heritage                           

4. Utility and Livelihoods                   

5. Protection                                          

6. Planning                                             

7. Health and Well-being                  

8. People and  Access to trees       

9. Coping with Threats                                                                                 

10. Environment                                     

The original Charter of the Forest came 800 years ago, hot on the heels of the Magna Carta, and reinstated the rights of everyday people to access the woods – to forage, graze livestock, collect firewood and more.

The new Charter, with trees and woods still firmly at the core, will reach out to every corner of the UK, and will draw its strength from people power.

It’s backed by a raft of famous names, who have lent their voice to support the project principles.  They include Eamonn Holmes, Chris Packham, Clive Anderson, Benjamin Zephaniah, John Humphrys, Kevin McCloud, Gemma Cairney and Carenza Lewis.

 The Trust is now asking members of the public to come on-board and show support by way of a simple signature.  Find out more and add your name at www.treecharter.uk/sign