Bentley puts down new roots

Tree-planting project acknowledges the role trees play in tackling climate change and protecting biodiversity

As Bentley Motors approaches the end of its centenary year, the British car manufacturer has invested in a more sustainable future at its factory in Crewe by planting 100 native British trees around the site.

Timed to coincide with Britain’s winter tree-planting season and the country’s National Tree Week (November 23 to December 1), the project acknowledged the importance of planting trees to tackle climate change and protect biodiversity.

The trees planted include 10 oaks, which have been located outside office buildings, and 15 cherry trees, which line the approach to the company’s main entrance.

A further 70 trees – including maple, beech, walnut, lime and elm saplings – have been planted along the boundaries of a social facility situated within the site. Additionally, 10 fruit trees have been relocated from an area marked for development to create a new orchard outside a visitor reception zone.

Peter Bosch, a member of Bentley’s board, says sustainably sourced wood has been one of the brand’s core interior components since it began manufacturing cars 100 years ago. “Wood continues to be an essential element of the unique craftsmanship in our vehicles. Our veneers are ethically sourced by experts who go to great lengths to find the finest veneers in the world.

“We wanted to plant trees around site that are not only native British species, but reflective of the interiors that we produce in our cars. Trees play a vital role in tackling climate change because they help to improve air quality, absorb CO₂ and increase oxygen.

“They are also important for our local biodiversity and wildlife and they make our local area a nicer place in which to live and work. We’ve chosen the locations carefully to ensure they enhance the green spaces on our site and can be enjoyed by both our colleagues and the local community.”