By Dan Walsh
Glanbia Ireland and its farm family suppliers have achieved their Operation Biodiversity target of planting 100,000 native trees and hedgerow plants one year ahead of schedule and to celebrate the landmark sustainability commitment and to mark the significant decision taken by Glanbia Co-op to take full ownership of Glanbia Ireland.
10,000 potted native trees are provided at no cost to farm family suppliers and customers through the network of CountryLife Garden Centres. In Wexford, CountryLife has centres in Campile, in New Ross where the give-away were launched, and in Bunclody.
The trees are limited to one potted tree per customer. 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.
Wexford-based 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. Today, we are delighted to report we have reached this target – a full year ahead of schedule.
“Our farm family suppliers and customers have embraced this initiative and joined us on our Living Proof sustainability journey. Our Co-op members have also taken the positive decision to acquire full ownership of Glanbia Ireland.
“This will ensure that we continue to better serve our communities, farmers and colleagues for this generation and the next generation to come. We want our farm family suppliers and our customers to celebrate this decision and mark it by planting a native tree in their garden or on the farm,” concluded Mr Murphy.
The 10,000 free native trees include Alder, Birch, Crab Apple and Oak and are now available for pick up in Glanbia Ireland’s CountryLife Garden Centres. The latest stage of the Operation Biodiversity programme continues for 2022. Separate to the 10,000 trees made available at no cost, bundles are also available for sale through the programme.
Tree and hedgerow bundles is grouped by soil type, ensuring everyone chooses the right variety with the best chance of flourishing for generations to come.
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