For every 10 BUCS points earned by our Athletic Union (AU) teams, one tree will be planted. With over 6,000 student athletes and 60+ AU clubs competing nationally, this project allows us to champion sustainability without asking teams to do anything differently, just keep winning! Based on last year’s performance, we’ll plant 987 trees.
We’re partnering with Veritree, a leading restoration platform known for its transparent, community-driven projects. As part of the initiative, tree planting will take place both in the UK and in selected regions of Africa, with a focus on countries where Loughborough University already has established research partnerships or community engagement.
This dual-location approach allows us to support local biodiversity—improving air quality, enhancing habitats, and contributing to national carbon sequestration efforts—while also making a global impact by restoring degraded ecosystems, supporting climate resilience, and empowering communities through sustainable development.
Image provided by Veritree.
By aligning planting efforts with areas of existing University influence, the project strengthens our commitment to socially responsible and globally connected environmental action.
Elliott Brown, Sustainability Manager at the University, commented: “This initiative reflects Loughborough’s unique ability to lead on both sporting excellence and environmental responsibility. This project connects our unrivalled performance in sport with real-world impact by enhancing biodiversity and supporting communities.
“Importantly, it also provides a meaningful opportunity for our students to engage with sustainability in a way that’s directly connected to their university experience and achievements.”