Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund helps pupils grow greener futures

Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund has enabled The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) to deliver a £10,000 biodiversity initiative, empowering young people across Greater Belfast and North Down to connect with and protect their local environment.

The project, which was made possible by funding from the airport’s Community Fund, focused on improving biodiversity through practical outdoor learning and environmental action.

Over the course of the project, more than 1,750 native tree seeds were sown estimating the growth of over 1,450 trees. A total of over 265 pupils from seven of Belfast City Airport’s adopted schools were directly engaged in hands-on educational activities aimed at promoting sustainability and climate awareness.

In addition to learning practical skills of growing native trees from seed and tree identification, the workshops also covered discussions on the importance of native trees for biodiversity, local pollinators, and their positive impact on climate emergency.

Grainne Loughrey at Belfast City Airport, said:

“At Belfast City Airport, our Community Fund is all about making a meaningful difference to the lives of people in our local area.

“We are incredibly proud to support projects like this, which not only benefit young people but also contribute to long-term environmental sustainability.

“Through our partnership with TCV, we have been able to create greener, healthier school environments, while equipping pupils with the knowledge and enthusiasm to care for the natural world.”

Hollie Murphy, Project Officer at TCV, added:

“The funding from Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund has enabled us to reach hundreds of pupils with meaningful biodiversity education and action.

“These young people are the environmental leaders of tomorrow, and thanks to this support, they now have the knowledge and confidence to make a real difference in their communities.

“The impact of planting over 1,450 trees will be felt for generations, and the experience has sparked a lasting interest in nature and conservation among the pupils and teachers involved.”

Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund is dedicated to nurturing community wellbeing, enhancing environmental sustainability, and empowering local people.

Since its launch in 2009, the fund has donated almost £700,000 to more than 237 local initiatives.

To find out more about Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund, please visit: www.belfastcityairport.com/Our-Community