The primary aim of this initiative is to not only make Barbados more beautiful, but to reduce the impact of climate change. The Future Trees Initiative encourages both locals and visitors to leave a gift to future generations by planting a tree. This tree planting will in turn enhance the green spaces of Barbados. This initiative was started by the Future Centre Trust. Fruit and Shade trees including mahogany, tamarind, mango and golden apple trees, can be purchased for $25 US while palm trees can be purchased for $50 US. Other trees that can be purchased and planted for this initiative include Frangipani, Cordia and Mahoe trees. As with all plants, tress need water to grow properly and therefore the tress are planted during the rainy season of Barbados (June to November) in batches of 10 to 20. In order to add a personal touch, some persons plant trees in the memory of someone they lost, or to commemorate a marriage. The Future Centre Trust also, upon request, sends a personalized certificate to someone who is being honoured by the planting of the tree. With this initiative, over 2000 trees have been planted thus far, with just under 3000 to go to reach the trust’s target goal of 5000 trees.
The current locations where the trees are planted are: along the ABC Highway, The Garfield Sobers Sports complex, Morgan Lewis in St. Andrew and along the old airport road. Those locations that lie near roads cannot have trees that may grow too large that may be hazardous to drivers on the road.
Brief Background on the Future Centre Trust: Educate. Conserve. Protect.
The Future Centre Trust is a charitable nongovernmental organization focussing on the resources of environment of Barbados and methods that persons can use to preserve these resources for both the present and future generations. The trust also aims to educate Barbadians about overall sustainable living. Their goals are not only to teach and educate but to inspire persons to share ideas, assist the community to reconnect to its natural resources and very importantly to encourage members to become advocates for community issues that concern them.
For information on the Future Trust Future Trees Initiative, as well as other initiatives and projects, contact info@futurecentretrust.org or 625-2020.
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