The City of London celebrated National Tree Day by giving away 2,000 free trees to
Jaclyn ellah (Supervisor, forestry operations)
residents. The event, held this week, was part of the city’s ongoing effort to increase tree cover and bring more green space to local neighborhoods.
City forestry supervisor Jaclyn Ellah says the giveaways are about more than just trees. They are about creating long-term environmental benefits. We want people to plant them at home so we can reach our canopy cover targets across the city. Trees bring many benefits, from shade and lower energy costs to food and wildlife habitat, she explained.
The city has been running tree giveaways for years, and this years National Tree Day provided another opportunity to encourage planting. Officials say holding events on different dates makes it easier for more residents to participate. We do a lot of tree giveaways throughout the year, Ellah said. By spreading them out, we make it easier for residents to get involved.
Hunter MacPhail hmacphail@convertusgroup.com
In addition to the trees, each car that arrived at the event received a free bag of compost. The compost was provided by Convertus, a company that partners with the city to recycle green bin material into soil. A Convertus representative said it was rewarding to give back to residents and close the loop on the materials they provide.
Katie Breukers Forestry Inspector, ISA Certified Arborist
Residents who came out for the event said it makes a real difference. Katie Breukers, a forestry inspector and certified arborist, noted the importance of replacing trees that are being removed. So many trees are being cut down right now. We need to get as many new ones into the ground as possible so future generations can enjoy their shade, she said.
Officials say trees help clean the air, capture carbon, cool neighbourhoods, and make the city greener for years to come.
