A LIMERICK-based social enterprise is hoping to create a number of tiny forests in schools across the county with help from local businesses.
Living Woodlands was founded by two Limerick brothers, John and Colm Galvin, and has already planted three tiny forests around the county with the aim of planting 10 more around local schools.
The brothers are currently looking for other schools across the county who would be interested in having trees planted on their grounds.
They are also looking for local business owners who would like to come on board to sponsor a new tiny forest, which they say would function as a community woodland and would help companies in becoming more environmentally sustainable.
Living Woodlands has already planted three tiny forests at Tait House Community Enterprise, Thomond Community College, and Croom College of Further Education.
John Galvin, one of Living Woodlands’ founders, said: “It’s amazing how many businesses want to help and see the benefits of supporting community and educational projects that protect the local and wider environment.”
Tiny forests involve planting up over 600 native Irish trees on a site around the size of a tennis court, with the trees growing up to 10 times faster than normal tree planting initiatives.
The initiative offers a way to mitigate the effects of climate change by sequestering carbon as the trees grow, as well as increasing biodiversity and native wildlife habitats.
The tiny forests can also be an important educational resource as each one has an outdoor classroom where students actively learn about the biodiversity in front of them and the importance of protecting Ireland’s native tree, plant, and animal species.
Students can also be involved in the planting of the trees, creating a sense of stewardship for ‘their’ forest, nature, and the environment as a whole.
Living Woodlands also plants larger community woodlands and is looking for sponsorship in the form of tree pledges from individuals and businesses.
Any individuals or businesses interested in supporting the project, and giving a sustainable gift can get more information on livingwoodlands.com.
