Queensland schools branch out to celebrate Schools Tree Day

The importance of trees and Queensland’s environment is in the spotlight today as students dig holes, plant trees and learn about biodiversity as part of Schools Tree Day.

Minister for Environment Leeanne Enoch said today was a chance for children to learn all about the importance of trees and the role they play in our environment.

“We want our next generation taking an active role in caring for and celebrating Australia’s native vegetation and environment,” Ms Enoch said.

“This is a great opportunity for kids to get out and digs holes, get dirty and learn how to plant seedlings, tree and flowers.

“Schools Tree Day is part of National Tree Day celebrations which is the country’s largest community tree-planting and nature care event and highlights the important role our native vegetation has in providing habitats for our species.”

Minister for Education Grace Grace said that about 3,000 preschools, kindergartens, primary and high schools across Australia take part in Schools Tree Day.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the importance of sustainability and the need to look after our environment,” Ms Grace said.

“We know that many schools already have great environmental programs in place, however Schools Tree Day might also inspire other schools to take up this important cause.

“Planet Ark has prepared a range of resources and activities for schools to use.”

Minister Enoch said today’s Schools Tree Day came just before National Tree Day, which will be held on Sunday.

“Schools Tree Day and National Tree Day help remind us about the importance of nature in our daily lives,” she said.

Minister Enoch said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to protecting Queensland’s environment, for now and for future generations.

“That is why we have implemented a suite of initiatives to protect our environment and our valuable trees.

“Our Government’s vegetation management laws passed in Parliament earlier this year put an end to broadscale clearing and will go a long way to protecting our environment and climate for years to come.

“They also make a real difference to species that are under threat, while also helping to ensure we meet our global commitments to decrease carbon emissions, including a transition to zero net emissions by 2050.

“Over the last five years, land clearing in Queensland produced around 21 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

“This is by far the highest for any state or territory in Australia and is a major contributor to Australia’s overall greenhouse gas pollution.

“Science shows that keeping trees in the ground is a simple and effective way of reducing our emissions, and our strong and sensible tree clearing laws will ensure we are able to meet our emissions targets.”

Minister Enoch said the Palaszczuk Government’s work to establish the flagship $500 million Land Restoration Fund, along with the work on carbon farming programs, would also help protect our environment and the habitats of our valuable species.

For more information on Schools Tree Day visit: https://treeday.planetark.org/schools/.

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