Get involved with nature
Working together to become one of London’s most sustainable boroughs, join us on our journey.
In this section
Plant more trees
Did you know that Barnet is home to London’s oldest tree, knwn as The Totteridge Yew. It is over 2,000 years old and has the “Great Tree of London” status. You can find The Totteridge Yew in St Andrew’s Churchyard.
In 2023, Barnet Councillors approve the Tree Planting Policy. This means we will plant 5,000 trees by 2028
Increase the amount of greenery in the borough
Whether you have a large garden or just a windowsill you can:
- plant a wide variety of plant species to support local biodiversity
- you don’t have to be too tidy: consider wild planting areas, wildflowers and native plants to encourage pollinators
- use permeable materials instead of hardstanding where possible to reduce surface water runoff
- keep potted plants
- keep plants or herbs in window boxes
This is good for animals, insects, and bees and it contributes to a better environment and air quality.
10 ways to be more sustainable in your garden
You can also sponsor a tree in the borough.
Volunteer in a local group
Barnet has more than 40 groups of Friends of Parks.
Friends of Parks groups are independent, voluntary groups set up at community level. They work together with the council to enhance, improve and promote parks.
Friends of Parks groups come together to form the Barnet Friends of Green Spaces Network
Spend more time in nature
Barnet is one of the greenest suburbs in London. 28 percent of our land (2,466 hectares) is Green Belt and an extra 8 percent (690 hectares) identified as Metropolitan Open Land.
Why not make the most of living in a borough which is so rich in green spaces
Check out our walks and trails, many of which take you through footpaths and grassed areas. Going on walks is a simple and effective way of spending more time outdoors and staying healthy.