The Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) has marked National Tree Week by planting 400 new trees at the Ministry of Defence’s Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) site, underscoring the connection between environmental sustainability and national security.
These saplings join 200 existing trees and several ancient specimens at the Burghfield site, some of which have stood for nearly 600 years, providing vital habitats for wildlife and witnessing centuries of change in the UK’s nuclear capabilities.
The trees at the site are cared for by AWE’s Facility Management and Environment teams, in collaboration with their landscaping partners, MITIE, according to the organisation.
Piran Borlase-Hendry, AWE’s Technical Lead for Biodiversity and Heritage, shared the significance of the site’s ancient trees:
“The oldest oak tree put down its first roots 591 years ago at the Aldermaston site and is one of 20 trees recently surveyed as part of our Nature Recovery Plan. The naturally gnarled condition of the old tree trunks makes them a haven for other species. Notable birds spotted include the peregrine falcon, the barn owl, and woodlark. Other sightings include badgers, reptiles, and great crested newts.”
Luke Pollard, Minister for the Armed Forces, highlighted the broader importance of the initiative:
“Planting more trees and improving access to nature not only provides habitats for wildlife and helps sequester carbon, but also creates better workplaces. The ancient trees are symbols of our commitment to sustainability, alongside our national endeavour to maintain the UK’s security and prosperity, both now and into the future.”
The tree-planting initiative is part of AWE’s Nature Recovery Plan and reflects the DNE’s mission to balance environmental stewardship with the critical task of maintaining the UK’s nuclear deterrent.
Recently recognised at the MOD’s Sanctuary Awards, AWE continues to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, including protecting legally safeguarded species such as peregrine falcons on its site.
Treemendous.
Well, that will protect the country.
Neither does it harm national defence.
Wood you belive it?
Are these DEI compatible trees?
I see the good old English oak is not up to traditional ship building anymore. Those restoring HMS Victory are having to go to French Suppliers as they produce the best. Nelson will be turning in his pickle barrel now.
This is welcome. MoD areas, without encroaching civilian habitation, are wildlife havens, so if MoD does its bit then nothing wrong with it.
Guff.
Completely stumped by why there is money for this and not IFVs.
Because planting a few trees costs practically bugger-all
They ought to branch out and spend money on GBAD rather than this.
It’s knot easy to secure further funding.
“Centuries” of change in the UK’s nuclear capabilities?
Greenwashing at its best! Great to give developers someting to destroy in 100+ years.
All to late planting a few hundred trees it is a drop in the ocean.. Like much of the UK, all just a token gesture… If fact you don’t have to plant trees, just give the existing trees space and they will re generate themselves…Something not possible in modern britain…everything managed and nothing natural.. That old oak would of produced tens of thousands of new tree had it been given space…The only thing really growing is the concreting over of this island