The City of Airdrie has been awarded a $50,000 grant to plant 10,000 trees this summer in Sierra Springs along the Nose Creek watershed.

The grant was made possible through the 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program which provides financial support to organizations to plant trees over 10 years. According to the organization, planting two billion trees is taking a significant step forward in Canada’s approach to tackling the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.

"These trees will capture and store carbon from the atmosphere, improve air and water quality, help to restore nature and biodiversity, cool our urban centres, and create and support thousands of green jobs."

The City's Mayor, Peter Brown added that the funding will help create a greener and healthier environment for our community today and will benefit generations to come.”

“Creating urban forests in our City plays a vital role in capturing and storing carbon, enhancing air and water quality and promoting biodiversity,” said David Jarand. “It will also make a meaningful contribution to combating climate change and preserving our natural heritage."

Another tree-planting initiative that is also occurring this week on Thursday, June 8 is being organized by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women's Organization. In celebrating 100 years of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women's Organization, the organization pledged to plant 100 trees in Airdrie.

The 2 Billion Trees program is one part of the Natural Climate Solutions Fund.

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