“The Rebound Effect – How can intensification be sustainable?” – Renwick Drysdale, Akre Trees

The world needs to grow and plant an additional 1 trillion trees by 2050 to meet government-mandated targets for mitigating climate change and preventing biodiversity collapse.

Akre has developed the most efficient tree propagation system to date to address this critical challenge. In this session, we will delve into the design of Akre’s state-of-the-art nursery, discussing the innovative approaches and technological advancements involved in building it from scratch. Additionally, we will explore the various social, political, and economic hurdles that must be overcome to achieve these ambitious targets. This talk promises to provide valuable insights into the multifaceted efforts required to restore our planet’s forests and ensure a sustainable future.

Renwick Drysdale grew up on a farm in Fife before working in humanitarian explosive disposal with The HALO Trust and Syrian Civil Defence for five years covering 10 different countries. Returning to Fife in 2017 to manage KF Forestry part time, Renwick undertook a masters in Ecological Economics. During this time he became aware of the growing need to produce higher quality native trees to meet the ambitious targets being set around the world. To meet this need he designed and built Akre which has since produced and planted over 2 million trees restoring over 1,000 hectares of native woodland.

Our talks take place in the Lecture Theatre at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. All talks will begin at 7.30pm. The talks are free and are open to non-members.  No need to book, just come along on the day. All we ask is that you make a small donation at the door or perhaps buy a raffle ticket if you can.  For those who have not attended a lecture at RBGE before, entry is via the main reception: 20a Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR (not far from the East Gate).