The King Expresses Gratitude as Queen’s Green Canopy Surpasses Three Million Trees Planted

In a heartfelt gesture, the King conveyed his gratitude to those involved in the Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) initiative, which recently achieved the milestone of planting over three million trees. Launched in May 2021 to commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the initiative was extended posthumously after her passing in September, allowing individuals to plant trees in her memory.

Reflecting on the initiative’s progress, the King remarked on the significance of the past two years since he and the Queen inaugurated the QGC by planting a tree in Windsor Great Park. He expressed deep appreciation for the collective efforts of people across the United Kingdom in creating an enduring legacy for Queen Elizabeth through tree planting. The King emphasized the profound impact of the initiative, highlighting how simple yet powerful gestures can contribute to a lasting tribute to Her late Majesty’s 70-year reign.

To commemorate this achievement, the King and the Prince of Wales personally planted one of the final trees, an acer, in the gardens of Sandringham House. Additionally, Sir David Attenborough, a QGC ambassador, planted a tree in Richmond Park, underscoring the initiative’s invaluable contribution to the environment and future generations.

As part of the celebration, a film chronicling the QGC’s journey was released, narrated by project ambassador Dame Judi Dench. Furthermore, a unique mosaic artwork depicting the late Queen’s cypher, EIIR, was created, incorporating thousands of images of individuals with their jubilee and memorial trees, symbolizing the collective effort of participants.

Beyond tree planting, the QGC initiative facilitated over 30 urban planting projects in areas of social and environmental need and provided training to more than 70 young people in the green sector. While the jubilee project concludes, the QGC announced plans to fund the planting of a specimen tree in each of the 98 lieutenancies across the UK later this year, in honor of the coronation of King Charles III.

Through the success of the QGC initiative, the spirit of conservation and environmental stewardship championed by Queen Elizabeth continues to inspire and leave a lasting impact on communities and the planet.