RESIDENTS can get involved in tree planting this winter as part of a campaign to combat climate change.

Tree plantings will be taking part in Maldon over the winter months and volunteers are being encouraged to sign up.

The purpose is to combat climate change, improve air quality and encourage biodiversity.

Events will be taking place until late January 2023.

In October 2019, Essex County Council planted 375,000 trees at a cost of £1 million.

The council supports landowners with the funding, planning, planting and maintenance of trees.

The scheme is supported by the Woodland Trust, Forestry Commission, Thames Chase Community Forest and the Big Green Internet.

County Hall climate czar Peter Schwier said: “The work of the Essex Forest Initiative is crucial in the fight against climate change.

“The more new trees we are able to plant, the more carbon we can absorb from the atmosphere.

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“Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions is our first defence against climate change, but trees play a vital role in mitigating the impact of these emissions.

“By volunteering to plant these trees, Essex residents are doing their bit to help their local environment and the planet.”

Residents can find out more information about these planting dates and sign up to volunteer through the volunteer form at essex-self.achieveservice.com/service/Essex_Forest_Initiative_Volunteers.