Against the background of ambitious targets to increase tree cover in Wales to help mitigate and adapt to the challenges presented by climate change, the #GrowingTogether initiative promotes a philosophy to future tree planting in Wales that advocates more trees integrated into farming systems – allowing food production, farming, trees, nature, landscapes and rural communities to thrive.
Peter Fox MS said: “I’m absolutely delighted to fully support NFU Cymru’s Growing Together campaign to raise awareness of climate change and other agricultural issues. Farmers are the custodians of the land and as such are a key component in our efforts to tackle climate change.
“Planting trees is a very good start to strengthen our environment and I am pleased, as a farmer, to have played my part.
“I urge those, who can do so, to get behind the NFU Cymru’s crucial campaign.”
Monmouthshire NFU Cymru County Chairman David Edwards said: “We are delighted that Peter Fox MS could join us to plant a tree at the family farm. Engaging with politicians like Peter Fox MS is a vital component of spreading awareness of our #GrowingTogether campaign and sharing our ambitions with all those who have an interest in delivering the outcomes we all want to see.
“At NFU Cymru we firmly believe agriculture is uniquely placed to be part of the solution to climate change, and are working towards the goal of net zero agriculture by 2040, producing the most climate friendly food in the world. We recognise the vital role that our trees, hedgerows and the wider landscape will play in carbon storage to help achieve our net zero goal.
“We want to ensure that Wales’s ambitious targets for tree planting are progressed in a way that safeguards the multiple economic, environmental, social and cultural benefits that Welsh farming provides.”