Since 2022 The Wildlife Trusts has been the Met Office corporate charity, bringing a partnership of scientific projects as well as fundraising which concludes in August.  

Over the course of the partnership staff fundraising efforts, complemented by corporate donations, have enabled us to meet the £20,000 fundraising target, making a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation.   

In addition to fundraising, the partnership undertook joint research projects to help build our understanding and raise awareness of the relationships between weather and climate and specific species or habitats of concern to The Wildlife Trusts. Staff at the Met Office were invited to volunteer their time and expertise to lead and drive forward the research in close collaboration with experts from across The Wildlife Trusts, adding an extra dimension to the corporate charity partnership.  

Symbolic tree planting 

International Wildlife Day on 3 March provided a perfect opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the partnership with a tree planting event symbolising our dedication to sustainability and our partnership with The Wildlife Trusts.   

Two trees were planted at the event, chosen by the Met Office Biodiversity Working Group. A Dittisham Ploughman, also known as the 'Ditsum Plum’, which is a rare and hyper-localised variety from Devon, known for its abundant and delicious fruit. The second tree is a Merryweather Damson, chosen for its connection to our core mission, which supports wildlife and symbolises our dedication to weather and climate science.   

In time, blossom on the trees will provide nectar for insects while its fruit will provide sustenance for birds. The fruit will not be picked and left for the birds to eat.  

Met Office Chief Executive, Penny Endersby, said: "Our tree planting symbolises our commitment to sustainability and biodiversity and is a lasting reminder of our partnership with The Wildlife Trusts. It's a testament to the dedication of people working at the Met Office and the positive impact we can have on wildlife and the environment."  

Nick Bruce-White, Devon Wildlife Trust Chief Executive, said: "Our collaboration with the Met Office has been a tremendous success, enhancing biodiversity and encouraging a deeper connection with nature. Together, we've helped make a lasting positive impact on our local environment." 

Tree planting Wildlife Trust

Biodiversity Benchmark 

The Met Office is proud to hold The Wildlife Trusts' Biodiversity Benchmark for the Exeter HQ site. Biodiversity Benchmark tests the design and implementation of a business’s management systems to achieve continual biodiversity enhancement and protection on their sites.  

The prestigious status has been held since 2011, with the Met Office Biodiversity Working Group driving forward continual improvements on the Exeter site. Established in 2008, the Met Office Biodiversity Working Group is a staff-led group that supports and facilitates the enhancement of biodiversity on the Met Office estate. Since the start of the Working Group, 628 different species have been recorded at the Exeter HQ site around the ponds, wildflower meadow and surrounding areas.  

Azure Damselfly captured at the Met Office by Grahame Madge 

The Biodiversity Benchmark is one example of how the relationship between the Met Office and The Wildlife Trusts will continue outside of the corporate charity framework as we work together on our ongoing commitment to biodiversity and environmental stewardship. 

Sophie Pavelle, Author and Wildlife Trust Ambassador, said: "Small actions, like planting trees, can create important habitat and refuge for many species. By working together, The Wildlife Trusts and the Met Office are showing how collective efforts can create a brighter future for nature."  

The Met Office will continue raising funds and collaborating with The Wildlife Trusts until the end of August when the corporate charity arrangement ends. The process to agree the corporate charity for the next three years will start in the Spring and will be announced in September.