An agroforestry initiative aims to support Sainsbury’s farmers and growers to enable new farming practices and support a positive impact on the environment.

Agroforestry is the integration of trees, hedges and shrubs into farming systems which provides benefits including shade and shelter for animals and crops, improving biodiversity and soil structure while reducing soil erosion and capturing ammonia from the atmosphere.

Launched in collaboration with the Woodland Trust, as the two organisations celebrate 20 years of partnership, the project aims to boost agroforestry adoption and help farmers integrate trees effectively while maintaining other essential land services.

Starting in the North West and South West of England, Sainsbury’s suppliers involved in the initiative will get direct access to tailored advice on how best to integrate trees on their land to build resilient practices while simultaneously helping to protect soils, rivers and climate.

Ruth Cranston, director of corporate responsibility and sustainability at Sainsbury’s, said: “Over the past two decades we’ve worked closely to support the Woodland Trust and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve been able to achieve since we started work together 20 years ago; together we’ve transformed landscapes in the UK through tree planting, providing so many positive impacts as a result – from habitats for biodiversity, to improved welfare for hens laying our Woodland Eggs.”

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