The Social Value of Planting Trees in the UK

Introduction

Nature-based solutions not only protect the future of our planet and environment but also deliver immediate social value. 

Beyond their environmental benefits, tree planting initiatives enrich communities, improve mental health, and create employment opportunities. 

This blog will delve into the social value of tree planting, with a special emphasis on Carma’s link between veterans and tree planting. 

Types of Social Value

Tree planting in the UK contributes to social value in several ways:

1. Environmental Education: Engaging businesses in tree planting where their business is based raises awareness and encourages your employees to do the same. Creating a ripple effect of positive impact and awareness to the environment.
2. Community Cohesion: These activities bring employers and employees together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
3. Mental Health: Nature-based activities like tree planting have been shown to alleviate stress and improve mental health.
4. Employment Opportunities: Providing jobs in tree planting and environmental stewardship, especially for vulnerable groups like veterans.

Why Social Value and Employment are Important, Especially in the UK

Social value and employment are crucial in the UK for several reasons:

• Economic Stability: Employment generated through tree planting and environmental projects contributes to local economies.
• Mental Health: According to the Mental Health Foundation, one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. Engaging in nature-based activities is proven to improve mental well-being.
• Better Engaged Employees: Studies have shown when a workplace is surrounded by trees,  employees are more productive and have a greater sense of job satisfaction..

Veterans

The Need for Help for Veterans in the UK

Veterans in the UK face numerous challenges upon returning to civilian life, including mental health issues such as PTSD. A staggering 6% of serving and former serving personnel, and 17% of those who have been in a combat situation, suffer from some form of PTSD​. 

Transitioning from military to civilian life can be stressful, leading to high levels of anxiety and depression.

What We Do at Carma for Veterans

At Carma, we collaborate with the Green Task Force to provide veterans with positive pathways to employment through nature-based tasks, they plant all of your UK trees. This partnership not only offers employment but also incorporates Nature Based Therapy (NBT) to support veterans' mental health. Our tree planting days include:

• Employment Opportunities: Veterans are employed to lead tree planting days, which gives opportunities to businesses in the benefits of nature-based therapy.
• Mental Health Benefits: Research from the University of Michigan revealed that being out in nature is associated with significantly lower depression, perceived stress, and enhanced mental well-being. Participants reported a 50% improvement in mood after spending time outside.‍
• Economic Contribution: Employment in environmental projects contributes to local and national economies. Furthermore, Veterans find purpose and satisfaction in meaningful work that benefits the environment and society.

Impact in Action: Go Cardless case study

Payment company GoCardless is committed to sustainability, with a comprehensive strategy and Net Zero plan. They brought this to life by joining Carma and the Green Task Force veterans to plant 5,000 native English trees.

This tangible action tackles around 100 tonnes of CO2 per year. More than just carbon offsetting, it benefits nature, the community, and employees who gain a memorable, team-building day out.

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“Carma’s involvement with the Green Task Force works so well… helping veterans and ex-service personnel with their upskilling, well-being and a path to resettlement is massively important.”

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-Ben Knight, Go Cardless

Conclusion

The immediate social value of tree planting in the UK is profound. 

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By focusing on the present, we can see the tangible benefits to communities, mental health, and employment. Working with veterans exemplifies this impact, providing them with opportunities for employment and mental health support through nature-based solutions.

Together, we are making a difference now, creating a better future for our environment and society. Let's continue to support and expand these initiatives, ensuring that the social value of our actions is felt here and now.