Petition

The Issue

At Goddard's Farm Allotments, the use of wood chippings has become an essential part of our allotment cultivation, helping to suppress weeds and retain moisture in the soil. These chippings not only reduce our reliance on weed killer but are also more friendly to insects and wildlife, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable ecosystem.

But now, our supply of chippings is threatened by Reading Borough Council. The request at hand is simple – we ask RBC to allow a tree-care contractor to continue to provide Goddard's Farm Allotments with these vital chippings. Wood chippings are a sustainable by-product of the tree care industry and can be an excellent resource for allotments such as ours.

According to research conducted by the Royal Horticultural Society, chippings can reduce the number of weeds by up to 75%, making them a sustainable and organic option for weed suppression. They reduce the need for chemical weed killers, which negatively affect our soils and local wildlife. Additionally, moisture retention becomes equally critical in times of irregular rainfall, with chippings serving as an effective natural solution.

In the same vein, a decline in bees and insects has been raised as a serious concern by the Environmental Audit Committee (source: UK Parliament, 2018). By utilizing chippings in our allotments, we contribute to creating an environment that helps to boost their populations.

Therefore, we call upon the Reading Borough Council to permit a tree-care contractor to provide us with chippings. We need these resources that bridge the gap between nature and sustainability, helping us maintain our allotments in the healthiest, most eco-friendly way possible. Please sign this petition to support our plea.