January 08: New environmental report shows just how green we are
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| We barely recognise the environmental benefits of plants
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'Only a third of respondents had an understanding of the environmental issues surrounding the use of peat.'
The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has launched The PlantforLife Environment Report which contains the results of a nationwide survey set up to discover how 'green' Britain's gardeners are. Some of the key findings show:
* 69% of people recognise the aesthetic benefits of plants – but just 9% recognise environmental benefits.
* 58% are concerned about the impact climate change will have on wildlife.
* 41% are concerned about the loss of trees and hedgerows.
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| Green advice from Chris Collins
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* 38% of respondents have reduced their water usage over the last year. However, only 8% of those have adopted gardening methods which reduce the need for watering, such as buying drought-resistant plants or using mulches to prevent soil drying out.
* Only a third of respondents had an understanding of the environmental issues surrounding the use of peat.
Green waste schemes a winner!
The survey results did show, however, that provision of a local authority green waste scheme has a positive impact on levels of composting. Eighty per cent of survey respondents have such a scheme, and composting of both kitchen and household waste increases significantly when this is provided. The impact is greater still when free or subsidised compost bins are made available.
The PlantforLife Environment Report also contains simple, practical advice on eco-friendly gardening, such as composting, attracting wildlife and water efficiency, from celebrity gardener Chris Collins.
Email htapressoffice@redconsultancy.com for more information about the report.
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