Veolia Orchard cultivates sustainability in Westminster schools

In a bid to enhance biodiversity and instil sustainable habits among young Londoners, the Veolia Orchard initiative has been making significant strides across the UK. Since its inception in 2022, the programme has introduced over 1,500 apple and pear trees, along with 1,900 strawberry plants, into more than 500 school grounds nationwide. This spring, eight schools in Westminster have joined the movement, integrating nature into their urban environments.​

Participating schools, including St. Saviour’s C.E. School, The St. Marylebone CE School, St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Primary School, Halcyon London International School, and Wilberforce Primary School, have embraced the opportunity to cultivate their own orchards. These efforts are part of a broader environmental network aimed at promoting sustainable practices and outdoor learning among students.​

Veolia’s hands-on planting events have provided students with practical knowledge on planting techniques and orchard care. These sessions not only enhance green spaces within schools but also offer students access to fresh, locally-grown fruit. To support these initiatives, schools have been supplied with peat-free soil conditioner and topsoil by Pro-Grow, aligning with Veolia Orchard’s carbon-neutral goals and aiding in the preservation of valuable peatland habitats.​

Councillor Ryan Jude, Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Ecology and Culture, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, highlighting its role in engaging young people with sustainability and biodiversity. He emphasised the importance of such projects in addressing the ecological emergency declared in 2023 and acknowledged the value of partnerships like the one with Veolia in advancing Westminster’s Greening & Biodiversity Strategy.​

Looking ahead, the Veolia Orchard scheme is set to return in the autumn with the new school term. Schools interested in participating will have the opportunity to apply for their own orchard or strawberry patch, joining the growing network of institutions benefiting from this fruitful initiative.​

For more updates on Westminster, visit EyeOnLondon Westminster.

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