Football clubs planting trees for every goal as climate trial takes root in Forth Valley

Football clubs across the Forth Valley are turning matches into climate action by planting a tree for every goal scored.

Fourteen teams from Clackmannanshire, Stirling and Falkirk have signed up to the Trees for Goals initiative, pledging to plant a tree every time they find the back of the net this season.

Inspired by an international programme, the scheme was trialled in Scotland for the first time in 2024 and is being rolled out across the region. Local youth team Alloa Saints scored enough to fund the planting of 2,000 trees.

Stenhousemuir is among the clubs backing the project – and the vision is already beginning to take root at its grounds in Ochilview Park.

Stenhousemuir are among 14 clubs that have signed up to the scheme STV News

Josh Thornhill, from group the Conservation Volunteers, said: “Trees are amazing; they slow water down, they cool us down when it’s hot and provide amazing benefits for local wildlife. It’s really powerful – biodiversity should be strong within communities and on football pitches where we play with our kids and our friends.

“Climate change is an abstract idea; you can’t see the direct impact on daily life until your local area is flooded or you see heavy storms come. This activity will make a difference. If everyone is able to play a part and plant a couple of trees in their local green spaces and schools, that will make a massive difference.

“It gives people the chance to do something positive to address a big problem.”

Ollie Simpson transferred to Stenhousemuir at the beginning of last summer.

“It’s really good for the environment and a wee bit extra incentive to score. Hopefully we’ll add to that tally – we’ll see where the season takes us.”

Stenhousemuir player Ollie Simpson STV News

Stenhousemuir’s Head of Charity Blair Cremin said clubs have a responsibility to lead by example.

“We’re delighted to be chosen and see the impact we can do in the local community,” he said.

“Football clubs have the loudest voice in the community; we need to use that for good. If the agenda needs pushed, the impact climate change has in communities – we’ve got a loud, powerful voice. We try to do our bit.”

Organisers hope to plant 16 million trees across the Forth Valley region by 2033 and eventually see the programme rolled out nation-wide.

Forth Valley Climate Action Hub project officer Steven Aitkenhead said the scheme is “really inspiring.”

“Our aim is this goes Scotland-wide – all communities come together to plant trees to help the environment. It’s time we all come together and tackle climate change.”