Tree Charter | Woodland Trust

“Natural treasures, in roots, wood and leaves, for beauty, for use, the air that we breathe. Imagine: a wood starts with one small seed. We’re stronger together – people and trees.” - Harriet Fraser, 2017

The call for a Tree Charter - a revolutionary social movement - was initiated in 2015 by the Woodland Trust in response to the crisis facing trees and woods in the UK. There was no clear, unifying statement about the rights of people in the UK to the benefits of trees, woods and forests. The UK’s trees and woods face:

• low planting rates

• lack of legal protection

• inconsistent management

• declining interest in forestry and arboriculture careers

• threats from housing and infrastructure development, pests, diseases and climate change.

Each one of these issues was being addressed in isolation by a small number of concerned organisations and tree lovers.

LEGACY

The launch of the Tree Charter signals the beginning of a new era for woods, trees and people in the UK. To mark its launch in 2017, 11 carved wooden poles were installed in sites across the UK as lasting reminders of the Tree Charter and its 10 Principles.

Sustain landscapes rich in wildlife

Plant for the future

Celebrate the power of trees to inspire

Grow forests of opportunity and innovation

Protect irreplaceable trees and woods

Plan greener local landscapes

Recover health, hope and wellbeing with the help of trees

Make trees accessible to all

Combat the threats to our habitats

Strengthen our landscapes with trees

Sign the Tree Charter

Creating a national day for trees, woods and people

Trees deserve to be celebrated. Each year the whole of UK society should unite in celebrating the value and importance of trees and woods to people.

On the last Saturday in November each year, local communities, schools, organisations and individuals should mark a national ‘Tree Charter Day’ with activities and events that celebrate and reinvigorate the relationship between people and trees.

By signing the tree charter you will be showing your support and joining a social movement that is helping to strengthen the rights of trees and woodlands in the UK.

EDUCATION

Young people are increasingly disconnected from the natural environment. The Woodland Trust is asking schools and young people to engage with the Tree Charter and show support for the 10 Principles underpinning a future that will reconnect young people with nature.

There are useful links on the tree charter website to help teachers, parents and community groups connect young people with the Principles of the Tree Charter and with the woods and trees around them. Help to create a future in which trees and people stand stronger together.