15,000 new trees will be planted across the borough of Sandwell by 2030 as part of a bid to boost the environment and increase species diversity.
As part of the strategy, the Council will offer support and resources for businesses, community groups and residents to help with the planting of trees and plans to release an action plan and planting programme for the 2023/24 season shortly.
Councillor Laura Rollins, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Tourism, said: “We are looking forward to discussing the proposed tree strategy and considering the approach it sets out to meeting a tree planting target of 15,000 new trees by 2030.
“The benefits our trees provide cannot be overstated – trees enhance the quality of the local environment, homes, and contribute to thriving neighbourhoods in both aesthetic appearance and the overall quality of air and health.
“Trees are also recognised as an important way of mitigating the effects and impacts of climate change. Their presence alone cannot halt climate change; but they can help to slow the rate and enable adaptations.”
There are currently around 265,000 trees in Sandwell, which are said to provide £6bn in annual benefits based on carbon storage, air pollution removal, and rainwater interception.