Recycling Christmas trees has resulted in a record sum of money for three Dorset charities.
A total of £64,800 was raised for Diverse Abilities, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care and Julia’s House after around 29 tonnes of trees were collected from homes and businesses.
They were mainly recycled by Eco Sustainable Solutions, the Parley-based recycling and renewables company, into 96 cubic metres of woodland mulch, equivalent to about 1,920 wheelbarrow loads.
The money raised from charging people to dispose of their trees is up more than £7,000 on last year.
Bryony Hammond, Eco’s Marketing Executive, said: “We’re pleased and proud to play our part in raising a record amount for three very deserving local charities.
“It’s one of the most worthwhile community initiatives we’re involved in, not only generating much-needed funds for charity but also disposing the Christmas trees sustainably by turning them into woodland mulch.”
Francesca Potton, Community Fundraiser, Diverse Abilities, said: “We are really grateful to Eco for their continued support.
“Treecycling continues to be one of our main fundraising initiatives every year, allowing us to fundraise sustainably and raise money to support children and adults with disabilities in the Dorset area.”
Laura Maidment, Public Fundraising Manager, Julia’s House, said: “We are extremely grateful to Eco for helping us to successfully run our fourth Julia’s House Christmas tree collection service.
“We have only been able to make this initiative successful because of the kindness and generosity of several local companies, community groups and volunteers, who give their time, equipment and transport to help Julia’s House staff and volunteers.
“We cannot thank Eco enough for their generosity and community-focused approach in supporting our charity and helping make this collection happen.”
Vicki Gray, Head of Fundraising, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, said: “We are incredibly proud of the collective impact we’ve made together with another successful year of Christmas Tree collections and recycling.
“It’s amazing to see how something as simple as recycling a Christmas tree can have such a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.”
“The funds raised through this eco-friendly campaign will directly benefit patients by funding 1200 virtual exercise and well-being sessions, led by the charity’s Occupational Therapists.
“These sessions play a crucial role in helping patients maintain an active lifestyle, stay connected with others, and improve their mental and physical health.”