A new social enterprise has pledged to plant 96 unique ‘microforests’ at schools throughout Plymouth and surrounding areas.

Empowering the Next Generation: Societree’s Vision

Societree wants to create a lasting legacy that not only inspires the next generation by planting microforests, which have incredible environmental benefits, but also by supplying free books to every child who takes part.

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Corporate Involvement: A Sustainable Approach

Societree is inviting companies and organisations to join its mission by sponsoring a school or education provider and funding the creation of a microforest – investing their corporate social responsibility budgets in a sustainable way with environmental and educational benefits.

Understanding Microforests: A Remarkable Ecosystem

Microforests are literally small, dense forests that are a mixture of trees and plants that produce remarkable biodiversity for their size.

Youngsters at Mount Wise Primary School planting microforests with CIC Societree
Youngsters at Mount Wise Primary School having fun after planting their microforest Photo: John Allen

Educational Outreach: Books and Microforests

As part of the package, the children receive two years of free books, based on the work of microforest pioneer Dr Akira Miyawaki. The book series, entitled My Wacky Forest, is centred around the main character Mushi, who is a fun-guy!

Project 96: Honoring a Vision for a ‘Green Canopy’

Societree has named the initiative Project 96 – and is inspired by the late Queen who died aged 96, carrying on her vision of a ‘Green Canopy’. Two microforests have already been planted as part of a pilot scheme at Mount Wise Primary School and the YMCA Discovery College in Honicknowle, linked to Manadon Vale Primary School.

Community Involvement: Extending the Impact

While Societree expects most of its funding to come from company sponsorship, anybody interested in supporting its plans is welcome.

Empowering the Youth: Educational and Environmental Impact

Co-founder Steve Warren-Brown said:

“Through our pilot projects, we have already planted hundreds of trees and given away hundreds of books and the effects it’s had on the children has been overwhelming. The smiles prove that kids love nature, and to know that these micro-forests will continue to do educational, social and environmental good as they grow is a wonderful feeling.”

Environmental Benefits: Microforests as ‘Superlungs’

The environmental effects of microforests are well-documented. Evidence shows they are incredibly efficient at sequestering carbon, they are significantly more diverse and they can grow up to 10 times more quickly, meaning you can have real generational impacts.

Plans to plant nearly 100 ‘microforests’ at schools and other sites across Plymouth have
been unveiled. Societree, a new social enterprise, wants to inspire future generations – like these younsters at Manadon Primary School

Future Ambitions: A Greener, Sustainable Tomorrow

Societree, a Community Interest Company, has long-term ambitions to build a greener, more sustainable future in as many different communities, starting with the planting of the 96 microforests.

Societree’s Board of Directors: Driving the Mission

Societree’s Board of Directors is made up of Steve Warren-Brown, founder and managing director of locally-based YGS Landscapes, Adam King, Steve Evans and Nick Sprague.

Join the Movement: Making a Difference

To find out more about Societree and how to get involved, visit www.societree.uk.