BLACKPOOL, U.K.–First Rate Credit Union, which serves employees of BAE Systems, said it has launched a tree-planting initiative to reinforce its “commitment to sustainability and community impact.”
The credit union running the First Rate Forest project in partnership with environmental non-profit Just One Tree, according to Co-op News.
First Rate said the initiative will see at least one tree planted for every new member so that it “links personal financial wellbeing with positive environmental action, creating benefits that extend beyond individual members to the wider planet,” according to the report.
Co-op News said that Just One Tree, launched six years ago, partners with a wide range of businesses on its tree-planting projects, and shares its knowledge with organizations like the UN and its Food and Agriculture Organization. It says its work is “advancing reforestation, ocean regeneration, community resilience and climate education worldwide,” Co-op News said.
‘Direct Role’
For its part, First Rate told the publication that by joining, new members will “play a direct role in supporting global reforestation efforts”.
The credit union added that it will provide regular updates on the number of trees funded and the environmental impact achieved, “ensuring transparency and measurable outcomes,” according to Co-op News.
“Credit unions exist to make a positive difference, not just financially but socially and environmentally too,” First Rate CEO Mike Barry told the publication. “First Rate Forest is a simple way for our members to know that by saving responsibly, they are also helping to protect the planet and invest in a greener future for the next generation.”
