National Tree Day is the perfect opportunity for Australians to be involved in the largest community tree-planting event and contribute to preventing environmental problems.
Planet Ark, a non-profit organisation, has traditionally organised and promoted the event since 1996 leading to more than 10.5 million trees being planted across the country. The event is active in drawing attention to the value of trees and other aspects of our natural habitat in the conservation and protection of our environment.
"Australians are recognising the importance of an event like National Tree Day in addressing many of the problems that challenge our environment on a national and global scale," said Planet Ark spokesperson Rebecca Gilling.
"Planting trees on National Tree Day provides habitat for our native wildlife, helping them to cope with current and future climate conditions," she added.
"Trees encourage rain and help lock in moisture for other plants to use, which is especially important while we're in a drought, and by planting trees we're helping to fight climate change and we're adding to Australia's precious ecosystems".
To help promote the event this year, National Tree Day Ambassadors Jamie Durie, Ranger Stacey, Lee Kerneghan and Libbi Gorr are lending their faces and voices to raise awareness about the environment.
Television personality Libbi Gorr was "flattered" when asked to become an ambassador. "It is an honour to be a part of Planet Ark," she said.
Ms Gorr says that awareness surrounding environmental issues is increasing and believes that small steps count on a personal level.
Ms Gilling says, "More people than ever are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact and many are confused about carbon offset schemes. Planting trees on 'National Tree Day' is a simple way to offset some of our carbon emissions, and it's a fun day out."
Last year, more than 1.6 million trees were planted by over 300,000 volunteers on National Tree Day.
National Tree Day is set for July 29 and Schools Tree Day is on July 27. Schools can participate in the Schools Tree Day by registering their school and planting trees.
If you would like to volunteer or register your own site call the National Tree Day Hotline on 1300 885 000. To find a tree planting site in your area, please visit www.planetark.com/treeday .
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