Trees4Scores Kicks Into Action This Saturday
Trees4Scores, led by BUEI for the 5th Youth Climate Summit, converts cricket and football scores into environmental action, with an ecosystem planting set to take place on November 22.
A spokesperson said, “Trees4Scores is a ground-breaking environmental action programme led by the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute [BUEI] in celebration of this year’s 5th annual Youth Climate Summit [YCS] taking place this week. The programme kicked off at Cup Match and ran through the end of October, calculating runs, wickets and goals scored through local cricket and football league play which are transferring to environmental impact and building climate resilience for Bermuda.
“Over the past several months, the Bermuda Cricket Board [BCB] and Bermuda Football Association [BFA] participated in a friendly competition in which both sporting bodies were tracking scores to be converted into eco-systems to be planted during the first phase of this transformative programme taking place this Saturday November 22. Details regarding future phases of the programme will be announced in the new year.
“What is an eco-system and how many are being planted? Phase one of Trees4Scores will plant 110 eco-systems, or a combined total of 330 species consisting of native and endemic plants, trees, shrubs and ground coverings that make up an environmental habitat.
“Why do eco-systems matter? Planting native and endemic eco-systems immediately expands Bermuda’s unique biodiversity and beautifies our natural green spaces. As these species mature, they will provide shade, sequester carbon and produce oxygen, all of which enriches the environment and reinforces our tiny island’s ability to combat the negative impacts of climate change.
“When and where does the planting take place? Working in partnership with the Bermuda National Trust [BNT], volunteers from BUEI, YCS, BCB, BFA and Trees4Scores programme partners will be planting at three locations on Saturday November 22:
- Spittal Pond West in Smith’s from 8:00am – 10:15am
- Sherwin Nature Reserve in Warwick from 11:30am – 2:00pm
- Highpoint Nature Reserve in Southampton from 3:00pm – 5:30pm
“Go to https://buei.org/trees4scores/ for additional details and volunteer sign up.”
Calvin Blankedal, Executive Director with the Bermuda Cricket Board said “Together, we strive to make cricket more than just a game — it’s a catalyst for positive change in our environment and our communities. Our partnership with BUEI and YCS embodies this shared vision. Through Trees4Scores, every run scored and every wicket taken brings us closer to a greener future. With Trees4Scores, everyone wins — there are no losers.”
The spokesperson said, “YCS develops young leaders and empowers Bermuda’s youth to find their voice to advocate for their future. Trees4Scores is an extraordinary example of local youth leadership in action. It also highlights Bermuda’s connection and contributions to a global network of young change makers. The programme concept originated from Trees4Goals, a climate action initiative that was started by a youth activist from Kenya named Lesein Mutunkei. As a child, Lesein began planting one tree for every goal he scored playing football, combining his passion for the sport with environmental stewardship. That single act has morphed into a worldwide movement and inspired our local Trees4Scores programme.”
Mark Wade, President of the Bermuda Football Association, continued by saying “Like cricket, the local and international football communities are prioritising sustainability and care for the environment. The BFA has called upon our Legends to support this important initiative by pairing them with youth players from their respective clubs to plant at the various locations this Saturday. We are delighted to be collaborating with BUEI and the partners involved in this programme that will transform the protected landscapes of today and provide greater long-term benefits for future generations.”
BUEI’s CEO, Traci Burgess, added “We are thrilled to be partnering with so many phenomenal organisations, each of whom are making significant contributions to the success of the Youth Climate Summit. The BCB, BFA and BNT have each demonstrated a strong commitment to Trees4Scores and share in our excitement for this transformational programme. BUEI and YCS extend a huge thank you to our programme partners and Trees4Scores sponsors, including the Roots Imperative, a Loren Hotel non-profit initiative, Conduit Re, AXA XL and Catalina Re. These collaborations and programme initiatives are a true testimony for the power of partnerships, the value of building strong community connections, and the positive outcomes our individual and collective actions can create for the environment.”
The spokesperson said, “To learn more about Trees4Scores and the Youth Climate Summit taking place November 17 – 22, visit www.ycsbda.com or follow @ycsbda on social media.”
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Category: All, Environment, Sports
