HELD on Sunday, 28 July, Planet Ark’s National Tree Day encourages schools, groups, and individuals in the community to plant trees.

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According to Planet Ark’s website since the Tree Day began in 1996, over 25 million trees have been planted by more than 4 million people over the past 23 years.

Port Stephens Councillor, Mr Giacomo Arnott participated in the National Tree Day for the second year.

He told News Of The Area, “The protection of our environment is the world’s most pressing issue, and getting our community involved means we all take responsibility for this problem and work together to protect it.”

“I joined in because I want to be part of the solution.”

“It is my second time being out planting trees in Boomerang Park, and it is always great fun!”

“It is important for all of us to work to protect Boomerang Park and, by extension, our local environment.”

“I encourage everyone to keep an eye on what the Raymond Terrace Tidy Towns group is up to, and join in next time they have a planting day.”

A statement by Planet Ark said that 70% of Australians believe individual actions can have an impact on global environmental issues like climate change.

Planet Ark’s first edition of the Tree Report found that a 5% increase in tree cover can reduce nearby daytime temperatures by 2.3 degrees Celsius.

A large healthy tree can sequester up to 93kg of CO2 and 1.4kg of air pollution a year.

Time in nature reduces stress, improves happiness, wellbeing and productivity.

Planet Ark Deputy CEO Rebecca Gilling said that the report should inspire the community to participate in tree planting,

“It’s heartening to hear that Australians think that individual action can make a positive impact on our environment.”

“National Tree Day is an excellent opportunity to work together on a local level to benefit your community and the environment at large.”

Mr Arnott also said, “My group, which included the amazing Coral Berry and two St Brigid’s students, planted three trees in the park.”

“Dozens of trees were planted by the community and the students on the day, and I am looking forward to checking back in a few weeks to see how the trees are going.”

By Heather SHARP