In the fight against climate change, we often feel powerless, like the problem is too big for any one of us to tackle. But while I may not be able to stop the global crisis alone, I can still make a difference right here in my community. And it all starts with something as simple as planting trees.

Growing Up in the Concrete Jungle

As a Londoner, my exposure to nature has always been limited to local parks and my garden. The rest of my time? Spent walking by roads, inhaling polluted air, and knowing full well that long-term exposure could lead to health problems down the line. This became one of the many reasons I sought ways to make a positive impact.

In 2019, I was eager to support environmental causes but didn’t have the means to donate financially. So, I did some research and stumbled upon Trees for Cities. Coincidentally, their next tree-planting event was happening in my childhood park—how could I resist?

First Planting Experience: A Full-Circle Moment

I arrived alone, unsure of what to expect. But almost instantly, I made friends with the other volunteers, all of us united by a shared mission. That day, I planted 51 trees, and the pride I felt was overwhelming. The park where I once played as a child with my granddad, where I hung out with friends as a teen, was now the park where I made a lasting contribution to the environment.

Five Years of Tree Planting - and Counting!

Fast forward five years, and I’m still attending these planting events regularly. I’ve probably planted hundreds by now. Every event brings its own excitement and sense of fulfilment. There’s something incredibly relaxing about the flexibility - contribute as much as you want, and leave when you're ready. And did I mention the hot food? After a few hours in the field, nothing beats sitting down with a cup of tea and a soft chocolate chip brioche.

One rainy day, after hours of hard work, we all huddled under a gazebo, warmed by our hot drinks, while a storyteller spun tales that made the rain seem like part of the magic. Moments like these remind me why I keep coming back.

Building a Greener Future—Together

What’s truly inspiring is seeing the entire community, from young children to retirees, come together for a common cause. I can’t wait to bring my nephew along one day when he’s old enough to join. It’s crucial to get the next generation involved so they learn early on the importance of caring for our planet. One day, they will be in charge of it.

Turning Tree Planting into a Team Sport

Planting with friends has made the experience even more rewarding. We’ve developed a system: one friend digs, another plants, and I ferry barrels of mulch to cover the newly planted trees. It’s teamwork at its finest - we’ve become a tree-planting machine! All while having the opportunity to catch up and be active.

The Long-Lasting Impact

One of the best parts of this journey is knowing that, years from now, I’ll be able to return to these parks and see the trees I planted standing tall. It’s a tangible, lasting legacy - something I can be proud of.

Get connected to the trees

We want you to be part of our urban tree adventures, whether that's by attending one of our planting days or saying hello over on social media @TreesForCities.

Together we can make urban trees matter!