Barnet has taken a major step towards a greener future as hundreds of volunteers came together to plant 1,800 trees in a single day, creating three new ‘Tiny Forests’ at Mutton Brook, East Finchley.
The initiative, led by Barnet Council in partnership with environmental charity Earthwatch Europe and local tech firm Pure Data Centres, aims to boost biodiversity and create sustainable urban green spaces.
The event, held on 26 March, saw enthusiastic participation from local schoolchildren, community members, and dignitaries, including Barnet Mayor Councillor Tony Vourou, Councillor Alan Schneiderman, and Dame Dawn Childs, CEO of Pure Data Centres.
Each forest, occupying an area the size of a tennis court, will serve as a dense nature haven, capable of supporting over 500 animal and plant species within three years. A natural pathway will link the forests to an outdoor classroom, fostering community engagement with nature.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability, Councillor Alan Schneiderman, highlighted the project’s impact:
“By creating these Tiny Forests, we’re not only enhancing local biodiversity but also providing valuable green spaces for our residents. This initiative reflects our commitment to a greener, more sustainable Barnet.”
The forests will also act as a living laboratory for local citizen scientists, who, under Earthwatch’s guidance, will collect data on tree growth, carbon sequestration, and environmental benefits. No chemicals or fertilisers were used in planting, and Biochar—a soil-enhancing charcoal—was incorporated to support tree health.
Private Sector Backing for Green Innovation
The initiative has been part-funded by Pure Data Centres and its sustainability arm, A Healthier Earth, which supplied some of the saplings from its ForestFactory at Blenheim Palace.
Dame Dawn Childs, CEO of Pure DC, said:
“Sustainability is at the core of our mission. These Tiny Forests will improve air quality, support biodiversity, and create greener spaces for communities. We are proud to be part of this transformative project.”
The Tiny Forests form part of Earthwatch’s Nature in Cities programme, which aims to create healthier urban spaces and improve public access to green environments.
As Barnet continues its efforts to enhance local sustainability, these new forests mark an important step in tackling climate change and fostering a deeper connection between the community and nature.
