We have worked collectively with Urban Planters and Timberland to open an accessible and biodiverse nature reserve at Westfield London, launching a three-year sustainable partnership to support local schools and residents. A pioneering space, it has been designed to feature a range of diverse horticultural areas and forms part of our ongoing commitment to the local area.
The nature reserve hosts a variety of different areas including a wildflower meadow, insect hotels, beehives, fruit trees, vegetable beds, herbs and a pond area. Located behind the Southern Terrace at Westfield London, it showcases different methods for growing fruits and vegetables to help visitors learn about sustainable food growing and the importance of caring for our environment.
“It is a natural partnership thanks to Timberland’s environmental stewardship and longstanding heritage in the outdoors. The brand leads in sustainability practices and eco-innovation with planting trees and a passion for nature sitting at the heart of everything we do.
“Sustainability is important for many reasons. While many retailers have only recently embraced the initiative, Timberland has acknowledged it since 1973. We are recognised by our Timberland community that we are very strong in this area. The footwear and apparel industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. So at Timberland, we feel the responsibility to accelerate our sustainability strategies.”
- Giorgio D'Aprile, Senior Marketing Director EMEA at Timberland
We worked with our London Access Group to design a safe and accessible space for visitors, providing practical guidance on all elements of the nature reserve, including modifying the heights of vegetable planters, signage design and accessibility of pathways.
This is to ensure visitors, made up of students from local specialist schools such as Jack Tizard School and Queensmill School, can use the space. These organisations support young people with special educational needs. Students will be invited to explore the space and offered the opportunity to learn about the importance of nature, biodiversity and horticulture.
