Tree planting powered by the Octopus Fan Club
We took to the fields of Cefn Bach Farm to plant some trees with Fan Club members.
Tree Planting, Cefn Bach Farm, Fan Club No.2
For our future Fan Club developments, we’re committed to ensuring at least a 10% biodiversity net gain for each project.
Planting trees can help to improve air quality, absorb CO2, and increase biodiversity - and what better place to start than our picturesque Fan Club No.2 in Deri, Wales.
We were joined by 4 amazing Fan Club members; neighbours Tracey & Vicky, Tracey’s mum Pauline, Maisie (our smallest four legged helper!) & Mags, who just so happens to also be the ecologist for the site (that was lucky!).
Together, we planted 140 trees - a huge effort for such a small group.
"The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is now - and it's so important that we keep planting hedgerows or what I like to call them 'wildlife corridors' for all declining species for future generations to enjoy and look after." - Geraint (Landowner for Fan No.2 & Fan Club Member)
So, why are we planting trees and what did we plant?
We planted a mix of Beech trees and Hazel. Hazel and beech trees are nature’s ultimate team players when it comes to boosting biodiversity. Hazelnuts are a snack for squirrels and birds, while early catkins keep bees buzzing. They also provide a perfect home for nesting birds, rare beetles, and even dormice. Beech trees, on the other hand, treat wildlife to their tasty nuts and slow-decomposing leaves, which create rich habitats for fungi and invertebrates. They offer shelter for birds and bats, with their hollow trunks and deadwood hosting all sorts of critters. Both trees capture carbon, prevent soil erosion, and support a thriving woodland ecosystem.
By planting 140 trees, we’re contributing to the absorption of around 3 tons of CO₂ each year and the sequestration of over 150 tons over their lifetimes. It’s a small forest making a big difference, supporting a greener, cleaner future.
“We thoroughly enjoyed the volunteering experience with Octopus. It felt important to add to the landscape for future generations. We understand trees & hedgerows are extremely beneficial to all sorts of biodiversity & land management & we were therefore proud to help out in a small way. We felt that by planting these trees we were leaving our own nature footprint on the beautiful landscape in our area.” - Tracey & Pauline (Fan Club Members)
Maisie getting stuck in digging holes ready for trees.
Lambing season was in full swing at Cefn Bach Farm.
Hard at work planting as many trees as possible in one day.
Thank you again to all of our volunteers who took the time to come and help us out - community really is at the heart of the Octopus Fan Club! Together, we’re powering towards a greener and cheaper future.
Want to know more about the Octopus Fan Club? Check out our page & register your interest here.
You can also email us directly at octopusfanclub@octoenergy.com.
