JUST ONE Tree Day is gathering momentum

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Schools throughout the UK and around the globe have already committed to participating in this international non-uniform day that encourages children to bring in £1 to plant a tree and help reforest the planet – a tree is planted for every £1 raised.

To date, over 200,000 children from 14 countries have joined together to plant over a quarter of a million trees, enabling JUST ONE Tree to expand into more countries, including Brazil, and become part of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Schools can sign up here.                                                          

The day highlights to children and young people how their individual actions can make a difference in the fight against climate change and the biodiversity crises. It is the flagship event of JUST ONE Tree, a British not-for-profit dedicated to removing CO2 from the atmosphere through global reforestation.

The event is open to both primary and secondary schools – those taking part can access lesson resources that fit in with the national curriculum. As part of their fundraising activities, children learn about photosynthesis, the benefits of trees for both people and wildlife and the vital role they play in reducing the impacts of climate change.

JUST ONE Tree founder, Amanda Bronkhorst: “JUST ONE Tree Day was born out of my passion to make a difference – not only for my young daughter, but for the future of all children. JUST ONE Tree Day has resulted in over a quarter of a million trees planted by pupils and I know that this year the ‘children’s forest’ can grow even bigger.

“School participation is doubly important because not only do they raise funds, the forest planted on their behalf helps compensate for a school’s environmental impact.

“Many children today struggle with climate anxiety, caused by the reality of our climate crisis. But JUST ONE Tree Day tells them that we can all make a difference with a simple action.  By taking direct action it spreads hope and positivity. It’s important to involve our young, helping them tackle their worries of today while setting them up for a sustainable lifestyle that aids their future.”

The money raised is used to plant the ‘right trees in the right place’ – supporting reforestation projects in Brazil, Haiti, Indonesia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nepal and Zambia, including mangrove forests and kelp regeneration in the seas off the Philippines and Australia.

What the schools said:

  • “Pupils were helped to feel empowered to take control of their futures and to make it greener.” Portsmouth High School, Hampshire
  • “This is such a wonderful incentive, thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of something so vital and beautiful.” Ysgol Panteg, Griffithstown Pontypool, Wales
  • “Thank you all for the wonderful work you are doing, not only by planting trees but also by planting the seeds of education in our young minds and hearts to foster sustainable positive change!” Instituto Leonardo Da Vinci, Lugano, Switzerland