Welwyn Hatfield awarded Tree City of the World status for sixth consecutive year

The international scheme promotes places that care for and celebrate their trees, and Welwyn Hatfield is one of 210 cities across the world and 27 in the UK to receive the 2024 accolade.

The borough’s thriving urban forest is managed by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council’s experienced tree officers, who manage approximately 30,000 individual trees, along with various woodland areas, open spaces, allotment sites, micro-orchards and several sites of special scientific interest. Their work plays a vital role in enhancing air quality, boosting diversity and making the borough a greener and healthier place to live and work.

Cllr Sandreni Bonfante, Executive Member for Environment, said:

“I’m extremely proud that we have been awarded tree city of the world for the sixth consecutive year.

“Trees are central to our heritage, and they will play a vital role in contributing to our commitments to increase biodiversity and become a net zero borough by 2050.

“This award is testament to the excellent work of our tree officers in caring for and preserving our trees and green spaces.”

Tree Cities of the World was co-founded in 2019 by The Arbor Day Foundation, the world's largest non-profit dedicated to planting trees, and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.

To qualify for Tree City of the World, cities must demonstrate their commitment to urban forestry by meeting five core standards including clear tree management responsibilities, an up-to-date tree inventory, an allocated tree-planting budget, established management policies, and an annual community tree celebration event.

For more information on our trees and green spaces, visit: https://one.welhat.gov.uk/treesandgreenspaces