Planting trees in the grounds of establishments used by children gives double satisfaction.

Planting trees and other plants to create a beautiful garden, and tidying up the areasurrounding Orphanage No. 1 in Warsaw are all part of a wide-ranging event we have planned in collaboration with Novo Nordisk.

Event partner -Novo Nordisk – is a global healthcare company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Jej misją jest wprowadzanie zmian w celu pokonania cukrzycy i innych poważnych chorób przewlekłych, takich jak otyłość oraz rzadkie zaburzenia krwi i endokrynologiczne.

With as many as 65 volunteers taking part, we were able to significantly expand our activities and enjoy the wonderful results of our work, although the final result will be seen in the spring.

The environment in which we live has a significant impact on our health.

According to new research, the environment in which we live has a significant impact on our development, wellbeing and general welfare. Children, whose organisms are developing intensely, are particularly sensitive to stimuli from the surrounding environment.
The environment has an additional and special significance for children who are already burdened by numerous problems, so it is worth supporting their development and ensuring their comfort at every possible level.

How did the tree planting and site clean-up go?

Firstly: tidying up!

To prepare and refresh the area, volunteers painted the benches in the garden and raked the ground. Earth was also fertilised – approximately 9 m3.

In support of native wildlife, the garden was cleared of invasive, alien plants. Invasive species pose a significant threat to local wildlife and can thus contribute to a decline in biodiversity, which is very important in the fight against global climate change.

During this one-day event, it was possible to remove as much as approx. 2 tonnes: red oak, American cherry, acacia robinia and ash-leaf maple.

The mistletoe that was threatening the trees was also removed. Thanks to this procedure, the willow tree growing in the park will survive for many more years!

Secondly: new plants!

The area has been enhanced with many plants that will completely change the character of the place.

• We planted seven large trees.

As the park surrounding the children’s home is under conservation protection, we chose the following species: Italian poplar 4 pieces, black poplar 1 piece, white mulberry 1 piece, common rowan 1 piece.

• We planted 100 fruit bushes.

From now on, children will not only be able to observe nature, but also taste the fruit that the new garden will produce. We believe that the availability of fresh fruit will further encourage children to eat healthily. The following shrubs have been planted in the park: blueberry, blackcurrant, red and white currant, hazelnut, dogwood, southern quackgrass, white and red gooseberry, chokeberry, sea buckthorn, blackberry, raspberry, grape and coral calla.

• We planted 1,000 bulbs of perennials and perennial nectariferous flowers, including: daffodils, tulips, onions, crocuses and sapphires. Spring is sure to greet the residents of the orphanage with fabulous colours.
• We prepared a herb garden, which included strawberries, strawberries in several varieties, oregano lembi, lemon balm, green mint, thyme, thyme. Part of the garden was left to be sown in the spring.
• We supported the existing flower meadow with new plant species.

Third: cottages for new residents!

By planting so many plants, the garden will attract many animals and become vibrant in spring. To support the new residents even more clearly, together with Novo Nordisk volunteers and residents of the centre, we prepared insect houses and nesting boxes for birds.
The completed houses and nesting boxes have been hung up in the grounds of the centre.

Is it worth organising this type of event?

Actions of jointly planting trees, shrubs or other plants have very many more or less obvious benefits.

Above all, raising environmental awareness is a very important step in the process of adapting to climate change. The acquisition of knowledge and common first steps stimulate active ecological action.
It should also not be overlooked that every action, be it planting or ecological workshops, is not only an educational event, but also an opportunity for integration and even relaxation. Working outdoors in contact with nature, even if it requires physical exertion, ultimately makes us feel more rested than after time spent in an office at a computer.

In the case of the event organised in collaboration with Novo Nordisk, the sense of satisfaction was multiplied. The results of the work the volunteers undertook will not only support the environment but, above all, delight the charges of the orphanage.

We would like to thank Novo Nordisk for its support of the Time for Forest project and its commitment to the future generations.