GCCI commemorates Agriculture Month with “Plant a Tree” initiative

In commemoration of Agriculture Month, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education launched the “Plant a Tree,” initiative.

During the launching of the initiative, members of GCCI along with representatives from the Education Ministry planted several fruit trees at schools around Georgetown. Some of these schools include Bishops’ High School, Queens College, David Rose Special Needs School, St Joseph High and North Georgetown Secondary.
Fruit trees planted included mango, cherry, pear, gooseberry and cashew.
According to the Chambers, the initiative aims to bring greater awareness to the importance of plant life in balancing the ecosystem. It explained that plants not only aid in reducing the carbon footprint through carbon sequestration but importantly also provide a home to many of nature’s animal species including birds, butterflies, etc.

“It is important for our school children to understand that trees contribute to their environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, moderate local climate by providing shade, regulate temperature extremes, conserve on water, preserve our soil, and support animal life. In the case of fruit trees, they provide fruits that can be consumed by their beneficiaries with many health benefits,” they said.
The Chambers said it looks forward to the assistance of above-mentioned schools in taking care of these plants to maturity.
“It is the intention of the Chambers to continue with this initiative at some other schools and other public spaces as it engages other stakeholders. The Chambers is also hopeful that it can convince every homeowner to plant a tree as collectively our efforts will reduce the impact of climate change and help to save planet Earth for our children and future generations to come,” they explained.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Month 2020 is being observed under the theme: “Investing in Agriculture for Poverty Reduction & Sustainable Development.” Due to the pandemic, the celebrations will be virtual to help curb the spread of the deadly virus.