BRANCHING OUT

Trees are crucial to the human race and to the UK’s ecosystems, but they’re under threat like never before. Thankfully, there’s a simple way you can help

Trees are truly one of nature’s miracles. Our long-limbed friends do so much for us, working tirelessly to convert carbon dioxide and pollutants into oxygen and clean air, as well as providing sustenance and shelter for whole ecosystems. The habitats of everything from insects to songbirds, and larger mammals like squirrels and foxes, are dependent on the nutrition and protection trees provide, so when trees disappear, entire food chains can go with them. They’re also a wonderful addition to human lives. As well as giving us shade and natural beauty, trees offer our children a place to climb and play, provide us with delicious fruit and nuts, and have many mental benefits. There’s a reason people head to the park or the woods when they want to relax. You can see then, why it’s so important to look after our trees. Sadly, today they’re facing more challenges than ever, with planting rates at an all-time low, development encroaching upon woodland areas, and threats posed by pests, disease and climate change. That’s why the Woodland Trust is asking you to stand up for our trees. Joining is easy: you can sign up for just £3 a month, and you’ll be doing your bit to help keep the UK’s woodlands thriving. You’ll also receive lots of useful benefits, including a directory of Woodland Trust woods, a guide to British trees and four copies of the Trust’s magazine, Broadleaf, each year. Sign up today, and help protect Britain’s trees together.