The Tree Council of Ireland, in partnership with Spar, is encouraging primary schools across Ireland to connect with nature and plant a tree on Spar National Tree Day this Thursday, 3 October.
The theme of the campaign is ‘Trees are Magic – Draíocht na gCrann.’
It calls on children, teachers and parents to take the pledge and plant one of the 2,000 native Irish hawthorn tree saplings that are available free for primary schools on www.treeday.ie.
Spar National Tree Day encourages students, teachers and families to connect with the magic of nature through educational activities, such as tree-planting.
This year’s campaign focuses on the native hawthorn tree, which has roots in folklore, with special magical properties, as well as playing a vital role in Ireland’s ecosystem.
A native Irish species, the hawthorn tree thrives in deciduous woodlands and hedgerows.
It is also famous for its distinctive white flowers and vibrant red berries, which provide essential food for birds and insects.
Important for biodiversity, the hawthorn tree also holds a special place in Irish folklore.
It is known as a fairy tree and a spot where fairies – known as sidhe – gather.
For this year’s Spar National Tree Day, the retailer will also be planting some magic under its trees in stores across the country.
For the month of October, participating Spar stores will be home to a fairy, who will be inviting local children to leave a wish at its door.
Each fairy door will have a QR code for parents to scan, share the child’s wish, and subsequently be in with the chance of making their child’s wish come to life.
‘Look Beyond The Ordinary’
Commenting on this year’s theme, the president of the Tree Council Ireland, Cormac Downey, said, “Spar National Tree Day is a fantastic opportunity to foster a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature and its trees among primary-school children.
“This year’s theme encourages us to look beyond the ordinary and appreciate the extraordinary and magical role trees play in our lives.”
The sales director of Spar, Colin Donnelly, added, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Tree Council of Ireland and support Spar National Tree Day.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to enhance awareness and engagement with our natural environment, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
“We believe that education is key to fostering a deeper connection with nature.
“By providing resources and opportunities for children to learn about trees and their ecosystems, we hope to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.”
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