The University of Glasgow held a ceremony to mark the planting of 20,000 trees across 11 hectares at Cochno Farm and Research Centre, as part of its ongoing efforts to be a leading institution in sustainability.

Cochno Farm Tree Planting - University colleagues group shot

Colleagues from across the University came together to celebrate the planting of the final trees at the site. The new forest will enhance biodiversity at the farm and surrounding area. The planting of the forest is a step towards the University’s ongoing mission to be a world-leading institution on sustainability.

Cochno Farm Tree Planting - Sapling

Among the 20,000 trees planted are various natives species, including Scotch Pine, Silver Birch, Downy Birch, Rowan, English Oak, Sessile Oak, Hawthorn, Black Alder, and Goat Willow.

Dr David Duncan, University Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, said: “Cochno Farm is the University’s centre for veterinary teaching and research and is increasingly vital for our work on environmental sustainability.

“Projects such as this tree planting not only contribute to sustainability through carbon sequestration, but provide a living laboratory for any future research related to sustainability.”

Dr Roddy Yarr, Director of Sustainability, said: “The planting of 20,000 trees at Cochno Farm is an important step towards the University’s long-term sustainability strategy. Efforts such as these are important for increasing biodiversity and creating habitats that enhance the Farm as a leading centre for teaching and research.

“The University also seeks to provide tangible evidence to our staff and students as well as the local community who use this area regularly that we are really engaged and acting towards the climate emergency on a local level”.

Professor Jaime Toney, Director of the Centre for Sustainable Solutions, said: “These initiatives are important because they demonstrate the University of Glasgow recognises its role as a world changing university, and projects focused on sustainability are vital to our efforts to tackle the worldwide challenge of the climate emergency.”

Cochno Farm Tree Planting - Senior Group Shot
l-r: Peter Haggarty, Stewart Miller, Dr Roddy Yarr, Prof Jaime Toney, Dr David Duncan, George King

Cochno Farm Tree Planting - tree planting demo

Cochno Farm Tree Planting - Dovile

Cochno Farm Peter and David


First published: 15 January 2024

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