Ealing Council’s ongoing commitment to tree-planting and greening has been awarded prestigious Tree Cities of the World status. 

Ealing is one of only 5 other UK councils to receive Tree Cities of the World status, which recognises five high standards for urban forest management.

There are estimated to be more than 234,000 trees and 87 species in the borough, with an amenity value of £3.4 billion. These trees remove 33 tonnes of pollutants and over 2,000 tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere every year, improving local air quality. Since 2014 the council has planted more than 6,000 trees and 53,000 saplings.

The prestigious international award will see Ealing join a new global network of cities spanning 17 countries across Europe, North and South America, Australia and New Zealand, dedicated to adopting the most successful approaches to managing urban trees and woodland.

Councillor Julian Bell, Leader of Ealing Council said: I am delighted that Ealing has been recognised on an international level with Tree Cities of the World status. It is testament to our ongoing commitment to our borough’s trees, a commitment we intend to keep over the coming years to safeguard this vital asset.

“Trees remove pollution from the atmosphere, provide shade and habitat for wildlife and reduce flood risk by absorbing water. They play a vital role in adding colour and beauty to our borough and can also help promote physical and mental well-being.”

“The council has declared a climate emergency and we are doing all in our power to transform Ealing into an even more environmentally-friendly borough in the years to come. Our award-winning tree management is helping us do just that.”

The council has been working with Trees for Cities since 2010 to deliver community greening projects and improve outdoor spaces across the borough. Trees for Cities works with volunteers, schools and local communities to improve people’s lives by planting trees in cities, enhancing green spaces.

David Elliott, chief executive at Trees for Cities, said: “We believe that the Tree Cities of the World initiative will provide a robust platform through which we can better plant, protect and celebrate our urban tree heritage.

“Trees for Cities is delighted to congratulate Ealing Council, which has been rewarded for the high standards of urban forestry that it demonstrates.”