DEFRA - Funding for 6 new micro forests | Let’s start planting!

In a transformative collaboration, The Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest, in tandem with Societree CIC, have successfully secured a £50,000 grant from DEFRA's King's Coronation Living Heritage Fund. This funding marks the initiation of a groundbreaking project to help Societree establish up to six ‘My Wacky Forests’ across Plymouth, ushering in a new era of innovative and sustainable urban forestry.

In celebration of King Charles III's love for nature, and DEFRA's commitment to environmental conservation, this funding also serves as a testament to the government's dedication to fostering sustainable initiatives that benefit both the environment and local communities. As such, Societree CIC, has been selected as the delivery partner for this ambitious project.

Steve Warren-Brown, the Founder of Societree CIC, expressed delight at being awarded the funding.

‘We are thrilled to have been successful with this application.  It endorses the company's vision and is a fitting reward for our four-year journey as a startup. We sincerely believe that this grant will act as a catalyst for Societree’ s broader vision, which is to plant 96 micro-forests in 96 schools, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of hundreds of children. Mushi cannot wait to meet all of the children of Plymouth !’

The Miyawaki Method, pioneered by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, involves planting trees densely, in small areas, akin to the size of a tennis court. This method is known for promoting rapid growth, enhancing biodiversity, and aiding in flood management and will soon transform Plymouth's urban landscape and schools.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet member for the Environment and Climate Change, welcomed the grant, emphasizing its unique nature. He expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the innovative approach to tree planting that Plymouth is set to experience.

The SocieTree team are finalising the locations for the 6 Microforests and it is hoped that this initiative is poised to contribute significantly to the Plymouth and South Devon Community Forests 1,900 hectares of new forests.

‘By Focusing on schools, and including free books for the children, SocieTree's commitment to inspiring future generations through its innovative tree planting model is, we believe, going to be groundbreaking and we are aiming for it to become every company’s ESG investment choice’ Steve added.

This Miyawaki Microforest project represents not only a significant investment in the environment but also a shared vision for a greener and healthier community. For more details about this particular project and how you can be involved,  please contact us.