In Belgium, we are committed to expanding and strengthening the existing forest in Oud-Turnhout. Together with our partner Natuurpunt, we are planting 1,000 new trees on 1 hectare of land.
This project is taking place in the De Liereman Landscape, one of the oldest nature reserves in Belgium. With its diverse natural environments, including forests, heathlands, grasslands, and shifting sands, this area is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
By planting new trees, we are expanding the habitat for these species and contributing to the preservation of this unique biodiversity. Furthermore, planting a mix of tree and shrub species will create a resilient forest that is ready for the future!
Together with Trees for All and Natuurpunt, we are planting 1,000 new trees and shrubs from nine different native species. These are all species that naturally belong to the region, such as winter oak, summer oak, rowan, winter lime, sloe, hazel, one-flowered hawthorn, buckthorn, and dog rose. In this way, we are not only creating more nature, but also establishing a climate- and future-proof forest.
A forest with a variety of tree and shrub species is better able to withstand the effects of climate change, such as drought, diseases, or pests. If one species struggles, the others help sustain the forest. And the more variety of species, the more different plants and animals are attracted to the forest, finding food and shelter there. Think of species like the curlew, nightjar, gentian, and crested newt. With this planting, we are also giving biodiversity a boost!
