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The European Tree of the Year award brings together trees with the most interesting stories from across Europe, promoting the importance of connecting with nature.
In a world full of division, anger, and heartbreak, it’s cathartic to have something uncontroversial that everyone can sit and admire.
That’s what European Tree of the Year gives us.
Since 2011, this competition has brought together the most unique and beautiful trees from across the continent.
Each country wishing to participate holds a national contest run by a local organizer (usually an NGO). In these national contests, the public may choose their favorite national tree, or a committee may decide.
Once the process is complete, each country will submit one tree to a European contest, and a public vote will be held online to crown the winner. This year he had 15 countries set up trees for selection.
How trees connect us
“I’ve never met anyone who said they didn’t like it.” wood” says Adam Holub, project manager at Nadace Partnerstvi, the Czech environmental group that organizes the contest.
“There are two symbols that can be used very effectively to convey important messages with an environmental twist: trees and bees.”
Holub says the main objective of the competition is to promote the relationship between trees and the local community and the environment.
“It’s also about giving local representation an opportunity to take it to a European level,” he explains. “We believe in the importance of people at the grassroots getting their ideas to the top.”
This step will take place at an awards ceremony in the European Parliament, attended by several MEPs and members of each nominated tree community.
Voting is open online here Until February 22nd, the winner will be announced in Brussels on March 20th.
Each tree has its own rich history. From ancient olive trees that live for thousands of years to trees that hold a special place in our communities.
To help you choose your favorites to vote on, here are some of the current top contenders.
Poland’s tousled beauty
Currently in first place with 21,808 votes is “The Heart of the Garden”. Poland. This magnificent tree has an unusually thick trunk and is estimated to be about 200 years old. It is located in the heart of the Botanical Garden of the University of Wrocław.
French unstable beauty
In the current rankings, the second place with 13,753 votes is: French “Bayou Weeping Beech.”
This 160-year-old tree, with a canopy of 40 meters, requires artificial support structures to keep it standing. But preserving this true beauty is worth the effort.
italian ancient olives
The next entry with 8,812 votes was “Lulus’ Millennium Olive Tree.” As the name suggests, this is wood It’s very old. It is assumed that this ruin was located in a small town called Lulas. Sardinia, between 3000 and 4000. We’re talking about the Bronze Age here. The award’s website says it is “a true symbol of resilience and continuity.”
A player who combines Portuguese politeness and charm
In fourth place with 6,925 votes is the Portuguese work “Camellia”. This beautifully manicured tree sits beautifully in his centenary garden of the ancient Villa Margaridi in the city of Guimarães.
Enduring nature of the Czech Republic
Rounding out the current top five is the aptly named “Pear Tree in the Middle of the Field.” Czech Republic.
Its unique shape is influenced by the region’s strong westerly winds. According to the Trees of Europe website, it “survived the collectivization, consolidation of fields and construction of land fills during the former Czechoslovak era.” How many people can say that?
Full details of the winning entries can be found on the awards page. Website Voting is open until February 22nd at 4pm (CET).
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