Online tool launched to help shape future environment plans

24 November 2020

​An online tool has been launched for Islanders to record details of the number of trees and hedgerows they have planted.

The tool will help the future planning of new woodland and wildlife corridors as well as assist with the Island’s response to the climate emergency. It will also identify the locations for any invasive tree diseases that target particular species.

Natural Environment and the Jersey Tree and Hedgerow Forum are encouraging Islanders to plant more hedges and trees around the Island ahead of National Tree Week.

Islanders can access the tool on the Jersey Biodiversity Centre (JBC) website where they can then directly record their planting details into the online form and onto a map of the Island.
Details include:

• The amount planted
• The species of plant
• The location

The new initiative coincides with National Tree Week (28 November-6 December), which marks the start of the tree planting season. Jersey Trees for Life are running sessions throughout the week, planting trees and hedgerows with local businesses and groups.

Gregory Guida, Assistant Minister for the Environment says “Planting a tree, a copse or a hedgerow is a small act and not very visible considering the good it does to the environment. Having this new online tool will help us track our progress at the Island level so all the small efforts add up into something measurable that will play a vital role in protecting our environment and helping us to reach our target of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.

“During this tree planting season, we are hoping our new recording tool will encourage more Islanders and organisations to be involved not only in tree planting but by contributing to our valuable work in collecting data on the environment. Planting a tree is one of the easiest things one can do to have a positive impact on our environment and trees and hedgerows are vital for enhancing our local biodiversity.”