Planting for the Future: How Our Smeed Dean Team Marked Earth Day

Earth Day is an important moment to reflect on how our individual and collective actions can support the planet. Whether it’s through reducing environmental impact, enhancing biodiversity, or supporting local ecosystems, every contribution matters.

Earlier this month, members of our team at Smeed Dean came together for a hands‑on planting day on site, with the aim of transforming an area of land from bare ground into new growth. The activity was a practical demonstration of our shared commitment to biodiversity, environmental stewardship and long‑term sustainability. 

During the planting day, colleagues rolled up their sleeves to prepare the ground and sow seeds that will support local wildlife and contribute to a healthier landscape. In total, nearly 200 native hedgerow tree species were planted around the new car parks on site, alongside a mix of native grass and wildflower species.

While the land looked empty at the time of planting, early signs of growth are already beginning to show, reinforcing how small, collective actions, when nurtured over time, can deliver long‑term value. 

Commenting on the event, Maisie McKenzie, Biodiversity Manager at wienerberger UK & Ireland, says:

“The native species planted were carefully selected for their resilience and ecological value, particularly their drought resistance in an ever warmer and drier part of the country. This also helps to create habitats for insects, birds and small mammals, supporting wildlife corridors and enhancing the long‑term biodiversity value of the site.

What made the day stand out wasn’t just the environmental impact, but the sense of teamwork, a small but meaningful step towards a more sustainable future and encouraging biodiversity in an urban environment.” - Maisie McKenzie, Biodiversity Manager at wienerberger UK & Ireland.

At wienerberger, initiatives like the Smeed Dean planting day highlight how sustainability is embedded not only in our products and operations, but also in the actions of our people. We are proud of the positive impact these new plants will have on the site, and we look forward to watching them flourish in the months and years ahead.

Happy Earth Day from all of us at wienerberger UK & Ireland.