Woolworths has sponsored over 3 000 indigenous trees to be planted during Arbour week from 1 to 7 September 2011. The trees are to be planted through the Wildlands Conservation Trust. The project aims to teach children and adults how to grow trees. The children and adults, referred to as “tree-preneurs” can then trade the growing trees for food, clothing, agricultural goods and tools or school and tertiary fees. These trees are then planted back into communities or in the Wildlands forest restoration projects. Apart from other benefits, trees absorb carbon and therefore help to reduce emissions into the atmosphere that contribute to climate change. Woolworths distribution centre in Midrand will be also be planting 160 trees and the Maxmead distribution centre will be planting 10 trees. Various other tree planting activities will be taking place across the business at a store level. “Arbour week helps to raise awareness about the need to reduce carbon emissions. South African’s are among the highest emitters of carbon per capita in the world. Planting trees helps us to reduce our emissions, provides food and makes our environment more appealing,” says Justin Smith, Woolworths Good business journey manager. Customers can also plant trees during Arbour week. Woolworths will have 6 varieties of indigenous trees available in 233 stores around the country. Ends Editors Note: The following trees will be available in selected stores • Podocarpus latifolius-Real yellowwood • Rhus pendulina-White karree • Syzygium cordatum-Waterberry • Trichilia emetic-Natal mahogany • Ekebergia capensis-Cape Ash • Combreytum krausii-Forest Bush willow Please see attachment for stores catalogued for indigenous trees. Tips on reducing emissions: 1. Reduce energy consumption by switching off energy consuming appliances that are not in use. 2. Reduce the amount of pollution by reusing, reducing or recycling wherever possible.