Kuehne+nagel Launches ‘tree For A Try’ Initiative At Rlwc2021

The Rugby League World Cup 2021 (RLWC2021) and its Official Logistics Partner, Kuehne+Nagel, have launched a new ‘Tree for a Try’ campaign to support the tournament’s commitment to delivering the most sustainable Rugby League World Cup ever. 

Kuehne+Nagel has pledged to plant a tree for every try scored in all 61 matches across the men’s, women’s, and wheelchair tournaments which will take place simultaneously for the first time.

The logistics company says the initiative is part of its wider sustainability actions, which include a Net Zero Carbon programme and over 300 sustainability initiatives including reducing plastic in the workplace and driving recycling activities.

The trees planted as part of the ‘Tree for a Try’ initiative will predominantly be planted in Brazil, working with non-profit organisation SOS Mata Atlantica to provide a ‘more temperate climate most conducive for growth’. The RLWC2021 also says the move will align with the fact that Brazil will be competing in the Women’s tournament for the first time at the tournament.

21 ceremonial trees will also be planted across RLWC2021 host towns and cities in England.

“Last year RLWC2021 published a Sustainability Charter to outline how we would leave a positive impact on the sport of Rugby League, our host cities and towns, venues and the wider environment,” said Jonathan Neill, Commercial Director, RLWC2021.

“The Charter has three pillars – environmental, social and economic – and Kuehne+Nagel’s ‘Tree for a Try’ initiative is a superb example of working with a partner who shares our sustainability values and ambitions. We will also jointly and creatively promote sustainability via a high-profile commitment at the tournament and recognise that collective effort across the sports sector can have a huge impact.” 

Brian Cox, UK National Director at Kuehne+Nagel, added: “At Kuehne+Nagel, we are committed to looking at sustainability and the protection of the environment. 

“Trees play a crucial role in supporting our environment and us, helping to capture carbon and cool our climate. 

“By partnering with the RLWC on this nature-based initiative we have a fantastic way to help build a lasting legacy and make a meaningful difference. We want every nation competing in the RLWC2021 tournament to score their record number of tries, so we can plant as many trees as possible.”

The initiative was launched by Ireland international and Salford Red Devils’ Oliver Roberts, along with children from Oakwood Avenue Primary School in Warrington (above), a RLWC2021 host town.