Glanbia Ireland has achieved 100,000 tree-planting target 12 months early

Glanbia Ireland and our farm family suppliers have achieved the Operation Biodiversity target of planting 100,000 native trees and hedgerow plants one year ahead of schedule.

To celebrate the landmark sustainability commitment, 10,000 potted native trees are being given away to farm family suppliers, customers and employees through our network of CountryLife Garden Centres along with the local branch in Athboy, Co Meath.

Speaking during the recent launch of the initiative, John Murphy, Chairman of Glanbia Ireland and Glanbia Co-op said: “Our farm family suppliers have demonstrated strong commitment to sustainability action by embracing the Operation Biodiversity initiative with great gusto.
“We pledged to plant 100,000 native trees and hedgerows in two years. It was one of several on-farm commitments also included in our ‘Living Proof’ sustainability strategy. We are delighted to report we have reached this target – a full year ahead of schedule.”

Trees flying out the door

The 10,000 free native trees have been available for a couple of weeks now and have proven to be extremely popular with customers. Overherd at Glanbia Ireland caught up with Horticulturalist Fergal Joy from our Bunclody branch who told us that “customers are really delighted to pick a free native tree as part of Operation Biodiversity and they’re even happier when they see the great selection of native Irish trees to choose from. I’ve been happy to advise people on which type of tree will sit happily on their land or in their garden and the feedback has been great, with many people mentioning it’s great to see GI support a project like this and help to combat climate change.”

Pick up your free tree

There are still some trees available* for pick up at Glanbia Ireland’s CountryLife Garden Centres. Types include Alder, Birch, Crab Apple and Oak and our in-store horticulturists are available to discuss which variety best suits different soil types and where trees will thrive. The trees are available on a first come, first served basis and limited to one per person.

There are also bundles available for sale and for every 15 native trees purchased through the Operation Biodiversity initiative, Glanbia Ireland is giving away a further 10 for free. Also, for every two bare root hedgerow bundles purchased, Glanbia Ireland is giving a third bundle away at no additional cost, helping our farmers sow up to 10 metres more of hedges.

*Trees are no longer available in Athboy, Castlelyons and Tullamore