Blog: Free trees fighting climate change at Folly Farm

Jack Gradidge, Conservation Officer at Folly Farm, tells us about the role of the zoo in a pioneering Welsh Government scheme, fighting climate change and inspiring action…

Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire recently took part in an innovative Welsh Government scheme known as ‘My Tree, Our Forest’ which aims to provide a tree, free of charge, to every household across Wales. The scheme demonstrates how the expertise and the draw of zoos like Folly Farm can align with Government targets, inspire action, and provide a hub for environmentalism.

The scheme launched last year with the first 5,000 trees given away in March 2022. Folly Farm is contributing to the second phase of the project which aims to give away 295,000 trees between November 2022 and March 2023.

The zoo is already a regional focal point for environmentalism and conservation, as well as a much-loved attraction in the area. It makes sense then that the zoo is acting as a distribution hub, providing expert growing advice, and allowing guests, staff, and members of the community to come and claim their tree. Folly Farm is one of 52 temporary distribution hubs which have opened across the country.

The scheme is offering the choice of eight native broadleaf tree species, including: sessile oak, hazel, field maple, rowan, hawthorn, silver birch, elder and crab apple as well as two native shrub species for smaller gardens: dog rose and dogwood.

Wales aims to be Net Zero by 2050, and experts have advised the planting of 86 million trees over the next decade to help combat the climate change emergency. As a result the ‘National Forest for Wales’ was launched in spring 2020 to create a network of new and restored woodland running the length and breadth of Wales.

Of course, new forest habitats can mean new and expanded habitats for Wales’ woodland species. We might well be creating space for beautiful native birds, squirrels and pine martens. Species which need our help.

My Tree, Our Forest offers a chance to inspire people to be proactive in helping to creating this National Forest and provides an excellent conversation starter to impart knowledge on nature, sustainability, and our planet.

I love having conversations with those who come to pick up a tree or those who might be unsure. I find it very satisfying that through the guidance we can provide, someone can walk away knowing they are doing a bit more to help the planet.

As zoos we all have our role to play in the fight against climate disaster. I am proud that Folly Farm have so far given away nearly 1000 trees since November and the scheme will continue until March of this year to coincide with the tree planting season. 

By Jack Gradidge, Conservation Officer at Folly Farm

All blogs reflect the views of their author and are not a reflection of BIAZA's positions.