Oldham MP speaks up for combatting climate change

MP Debbie Abrahams inspecting one of the saplings in Alexandra Park

Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Debbie Abrahams is joining over 500 other MPs in planting trees as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy, a network of forest conservation initiatives to mark Her Majesty's lifetime of service to the Commonwealth.

The trees - two silver birch, two rowan, and a hazel - have been planted in Alexandra Park, Oldham, by the council’s green space team.

After the tree planting, Mrs Abrahams said: “It’s so important that we do everything we can to combat climate change and the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy is a great way to highlight the importance of the UK’s woods and trees in that effort.

“Trees are integral to our landscape and countryside, forming an essential and cherished part of our cultural identity.

“They are crucial in improving soil health and water quality, reducing carbon, trapping pollutants, slowing the flow of flood water, sheltering livestock, providing a home for wildlife or a space for us to breathe.”

The trees were donated thanks to a partnership between the Woodland Trust, Sainsbury’s and ITV, which in April screened a landmark documentary, The Queen's Green Planet, following Her Majesty the Queen and this ambitious legacy project which brings together her deeply held commitment to the Commonwealth and her little-known love of trees. 

At the heart of the film was a conversation between the Queen and Sir David Attenborough filmed in the gardens of Buckingham Palace last summer.  

In a rare opportunity to see the Queen talking informally to Sir David, the conversation ranged from climate change, to conkers and of course trees, and was watched by 6.4 million viewers, making it ITV’s most watched factual programme of the year.

In support of the programme the Woodland Trust provided 50,000 trees for ITV viewers, and via the Rt Hon Frank Field MP, who conceived the QCC initiative, also offered a special commemorative pack to every MP in the UK.

Woodland Trust Chief Executive, Beccy Speight, said: “We are delighted so many MPs have decided to join us in our bid to plant trees as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy.

"I hope the residents of Oldham and Saddleworth will enjoy watching these saplings grow and flourish as part of this wonderful legacy initiative.”

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