Hertfordshire's latest Your Tree Our Future initiative has seen an incredible 94,000 free trees claimed by residents across the county — making this year's campaign the most successful yet. 

The tree giveaway, run by Hertfordshire County Council in partnership with local district and borough councils — including support from volunteers and community groups — encouraged residents to collect saplings over the weekend. The response smashed last year's total by 25,000 trees, showing just how committed local people are to greening their neighbourhoods and tackling climate change. 

Councillor Paul Zukowskyj, Executive Member for Environment, Transport & Growth, was at one of the busiest distribution events in Welwyn Hatfield, meeting residents, volunteers and staff helping out. He said the scheme "is all about empowering people to take simple, meaningful action to improve the place they live" — and that the partnership with local councils and charities was key to its success. 

Another council representative, Cllr Adrian England, Executive Member for Sustainability, pointed out that December is the ideal time for tree planting, with many saplings dormant and ready to take root. "Every tree planted is a step towards a greener Hertfordshire," he said, highlighting the long-term environmental and wellbeing benefits of more trees in local communities. 

Residents who picked up their trees also received planting and aftercare guidance — and many are sharing their progress online using the hashtag #YourTreeOurFuture to inspire others to join the effort. 

🌱 What's next?

The scheme will continue in future years as part of Hertfordshire's ongoing sustainability work. Full details on upcoming opportunities to get involved — and how to claim free trees in future planting seasons — are available at the council's website