SUNBELT Rentals UK and Ireland has partnered with Forests with Impact to grow over 250,000 trees within commercial tree nurseries in prison.
A programme at HMP Haverigg in Cumbria offers prisoners opportunities for rehabilitation while addressing the climate emergency. The initiative has enabled prisoners to grow and care for trees, contributing to the UK’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions and increasing biodiversity.
The prisoners receive horticultural training that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, guided by industry mentors. They are also provided with a pathway to employment upon release, helping to close skills gaps in key areas.
Sarah MacGregor, head of social sustainability at Sunbelt Rentals and founder and programme lead for Forests with Impact, said, “We’re so proud to see the progress of the FWI programme and the support from our partners across industries. The trees grown at HMP Haverigg through the FWI programme will not only help us to play our part in tackling the climate emergency, but it will also result in multiple opportunities for prisoners to make a positive change.
“This collaboration unites government, prisons, industry and local communities to create long-lasting environmental and social sustainability benefits.”
On November 14, Sunbelt Rentals and other industry partners celebrated a milestone at the official launch of the commercial tree nursery at HMP Haverigg in Cumbria. The launch event marked the programme’s expansion from one polytunnel to two and highlighted the achievements to date.
Mark Keily, health, safety and sustainability director at Sunbelt Rentals, added, “Forests with Impact is one of our flagship programmes focused on social sustainability and environmental change. By supporting sustainable tree nurseries within prisons, we’re not only contributing to the UK’s reforestation efforts but also playing an important role in helping to reduce reoffending by offering prisoners skills and a pathway towards meaningful employment.”
Sunbelt Rentals provided equipment donations to support the launch event, including lifting equipment, power, lighting and heating, as well as the time of the firm’s in-house social sustainability team.
