February 12th 2024
Clare Matterson, Director General of The Royal Horticultural Society, said: “The House of Lords Horticultural Sector Committee report detailed a sector brimming with possibilities to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues. Its recommendations reflected that, despite this, environmental horticulture has been overlooked for far too long and is in need of support and funding from government to fully realise its potential to benefit people, the environment, and the economy."
“We know that gardening creates a healthier nation, promoting better physical, mental, and social health. It offers all generations a connection to nature and has the potential to boost the green economy and develop the skills for our future workforce. It can be integral in the transition to net zero as well as addressing the climate emergency and biodiversity loss.
It is therefore disappointing that government have not recognised this in their response, greatly underestimating the scope and impact of the £28 billion environmental horticulture sector. We would strongly urge them to think again and work with the sector to harness the power of gardening and the energy of the country’s 28 million dedicated and passionate gardeners and millions more using green spaces.”
Source: RHS Press Release – 12/02/2024