Reports from the Greater London Authority indicate a worrying trend where over half of the London boroughs have seen a decrease in tree coverage from 2018 to 2024. Notably, Havering has recorded the largest decline, with canopy coverage dropping from 25% to 14%. A controversial incident in 2023, where Havering Council cut down 4,000 young trees planted by volunteers, has sparked discontent among community members and led to the cessation of the Trees for Havering initiative. Activists express frustration over what they see as misleading data and the broader implications of tree loss in urban areas.
In a video posted to Trees for Havering's Facebook page, co-founder Adam Ozbek expressed, "We have decided that we can no longer continue Trees for Havering." He highlights their struggle to meet tree-planting goals amid significant destruction.
Ross Elliott, another co-founder of Trees for Havering, stated: "We've planted over 21,500 trees...it's heartbreaking - soul destroying, and it's not fair on us or our volunteers and supporters." This reflects the emotional toll of their efforts.
Ian Pirie of Havering Friends of the Earth commented on the Greater London Authority's data, saying: "Are there particular reasons why Havering has seen such a reduction? Tragic though the episode is...it cannot be the whole explanation."
Despite Havering Council claiming no net loss of trees, data indicates that the borough's canopy coverage significantly dropped from 25% to 14% from 2018 to 2024, raising critical questions.
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