On September 4th, 2023, a groundbreaking nationwide initiative, the Green Tree Badge, was unveiled through a collaborative effort between the Royal Forestry Society (RFS) and Bags of Ethics. The official launch took place at a VIP event at the prestigious Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew with the support from Ellie Goul
The Green Tree Badge initiative strives to involve 1 million children, families, community groups, or schools in exploring the captivating world of trees. It aims to heighten awareness of the vital role of trees and forestry in addressing climate change challenges.
During the event, guests had the opportunity to engage with forestry experts, participate in activities, experience a classical flute performance, and gain deeper insights into this remarkable initiative.
How does it work?
Children earn the Green Tree Badge by undertaking a delightful journey of tree-based activities outlined in our Activity Passbook. Upon completion of 2 challenges from each of the four themes, participants receive their Green Tree Badge. For those seeking additional challenges, the Gold Award offers an opportunity for assessment by our esteemed panel, with the chance to be selected for exclusive Gold Award ceremonies.
Supporters:
Supporters for the Green Tree Badge include Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE CStJ FRSA FBCS, HM Lord Lieutenant, Tony Kirkham MBE VMH FICFor, the former Head of the Arboretum at Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, and The Hon. Jeremy Soames. Also, well-known names like Ellie Goulding, Millie Mackintosh, Clodagh McKenna, and Alice Beer. These advocates represent a diverse spectrum of expertise in education, conservation, and forestry, all uniting to support the cause of fostering tree awareness.
Sir David Jason: “I love trees and all that they bring to the planet. I have planted and looked after many of them in my lifetime. The Green Tree Badge with its focus on children – future guardians of our planet- to be better equipped and knowledgeable about trees, nature, and our wider environment is something that deserves our full support, and certainly has mine”.
Smruti Sriram, Chief Executive of Bags of Ethics: “I have always been passionate about protecting the planet. We have built our business on the basis of promoting reusable products and the people who create them. As a mother, this has become even more important to me. I am therefore incredibly excited to be launching the Green Tree Badge with the Royal Forestry Society. Our mission is to inspire children of all backgrounds to better understand the world of trees -trees are often overlooked but they are wonderful giving us food, shelter, clean air and so much more”.
Christopher Williams, Chief Executive of the Royal Forestry Society: “Trees are not just beautiful, individually and together. They also play an invaluable role in the fight against climate change. They lock up carbon as they grow and provide a whole range of environmental and economic benefits. By creating a series of fun activities leading to the Green Tree Badge we aim to give children a life-long love of trees”.
Partnerships and Retailers:
The Green Tree Badge is a partnership between the Royal Forestry Society (RFS), a forestry education charity, and Bags of Ethics, an environmentally conscious brand. This collaboration is founded on the collective vision that children play a pivotal role as future stewards of our woodlands.
Proud partners of the Green Tree Badge initiative include esteemed organisations such as The Scouts, Severn Trent Water, and Hamptons. Retailers interested in aligning with this eco-friendly initiative are invited to contact us at [email protected].
Get Involved:
Demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity, the initiative will donate a minimum of 5,000 Activity Passbooks to primary schools in disadvantaged communities. This act underscores the initiative’s dedication to fostering environmental awareness and ensuring participation across diverse backgrounds.
Individuals, schools, community groups, and corporate donors eager to be part of this green revolution can visit www.bagsofethics.org/greentreebadge.
Stay connected through social media @greentreebadge, @bagsofethics, and @royal_forestry.
The Green Tree Badge initiative is not just about planting trees; it’s about nurturing a generation of tree guardians. Join the movement, embrace the green spirit, and let’s together sow the seeds of a sustainable future.
