EIGHTY new trees have been planted at Richard Huish College as part of a nationwide initiative to combat carbon emissions.

The trees were donated by Carbon Footprint Ltd following the college’s application to the UK Tree Planting project. The project sees Carbon Footprint’s commercial partners sponsor trees which are then planted in UK schools to support biodiversity and offset the sponsor’s carbon emissions.

A spokesman for Carbon Footprint Ltd said: “Planting is a great way to help sequester carbon emissions. Through photosynthesis trees absorb carbon dioxide to produce oxygen and wood. By ensuring that the trees planted are native broad leaf species helps to preserve the UK’s environment and biodiversity”.

Student Toby Jones said: “It's great to help improve the campus for future students."

Fellow pupil Heather said: “It’s good to be able to give something back to the environment and the college”.

The Huish site already boasts many spectacular species including Beech, Redwood and Willow. The trees have served as inspiration for the buildings, which are each named after a different plant species.

The new additions to the campus include 30 Hazel trees, 10 Crab Apple trees, 20 Blackthorn trees and 20 Dog Rose.