The dentist might not be the first place you picture at the forefront of environmental action, but Kendal’s Crossbank Dental Care are spreading smiles beyond the surgery and across the countryside.
Partnering with Cumbria Wildlife Trust, the only voluntary organisation devoted solely to the conservation of wildlife and natural landscapes in the county, their “Implant a Tree” initiative sponsors the planting of a tree for every dental implant they place for a year.
Recognised as green pioneers in the dentistry sector, the surgery has been awarded green benchmark certification for practices including: sustainable bulk purchasing, switching to reusable and recyclable materials, reduction of waste, packaging, transportation and emissions, and significant reduction in their carbon footprint through solar panels, low-carbon heating solutions and upgraded insulation.
Carefully reintroducing trees into formerly depleted Cumbrian landscapes brings a wealth of benefits, including reducing soil erosion and flooding, supporting vital pollinators and wildlife, capturing carbon and helping reverse climate change.
Already supporters of Cumbria Wildlife Trust, with tree-planting season just beginning, Crossbank Dental Care are about to see their first “Implant a Tree” saplings taking root, supporting pioneering habitat restoration initiatives across the county.
“We thought matching tree planting with the life-enhancing implants we place every day was a great way to give something back, and the scheme is proving really popular with our patients,” says Bex Cooper, Crossbank Dental Care’s Director, who first raised awareness for the Cumbria Wildlife Trust when she dug her own wildlife pond as part of their “30 Days Wild” challenge, back in June.
“It’s thrilling to think that our first saplings are about to move from the nursery to the fellside. It’s true great oaks start as little acorns: these carbon-capture heroes could help combat climate change for decades, even centuries, to come.”
Further details about ‘Implant a Tree’ are available by ringing or visiting the practice, while famously hands-on Bex isn’t adverse to getting her shovel out again. “30 Days Wild showed we can all make a practical difference, so getting hands-on in the planting of our trees is something we’re hoping to do. Whether it’s though the surgery, community or family, it’s great to think that by joining together, we can make a lasting impact on our planet while transforming smiles and lives.”
