Alloa Saints Score for the Environment with ‘Trees for Goals’ Initiative
Youth Football Club Alloa Saints is making headlines on and off the pitch by teaming up with Forth Valley Climate Action Hub, TCV Scotland and Forth Climate Forest for an exciting new initiative called ‘Trees for Goals’.
The idea is simple yet impactful: for every goal scored by the team between the start of the season and National Tree Week (ending 1st December) the club will plant a tree. But the project – inspired by Kenyan footballer and environmentalist Lesein Mutunkei – is about more than just planting trees. The initiative will teach young players about the importance of native trees, which boost local biodiversity, help manage flooding, create wildlife habitats and connect communities with nature.
Trees for Goals
The trees will be planted at the team’s training ground at Alloa Cricket Club as well as other locations across Clackmannanshire, ensuring that every goal scored contributes to a greener, more resilient future for the Wee County.
With over 1,000 goals already scored this season, the Saints players are proving that teamwork can make a difference for both football and the environment. Sarah Donnachie, Climate Hub Officer for FEL Scotland’s Forth Valley Climate Action Hub, commented: “This project demonstrates how community sport can have a real impact on tackling the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. By linking goals on the field with goals for the planet, we’re empowering young people and their families to take meaningful action that’s not only fun, but educational and vital.
“The response from the players has been so enthusiastic that the number of trees has had to be capped!”
Paul Robertson, Chairman of Alloa Saints Football Club added: “Our players are learning that the goals they score have an impact far beyond the pitch. They’re not just
playing to win games – they’re playing to make their community better and greener. It’s a fantastic initiative, and the kids are so proud to be a part of it.
“One of our coaches shared a heartwarming moment: after scoring a goal, one young player ran straight to his parents, shouting, ‘That’ll plant a tree!’ His face was beaming with delight.”
Football’s Role in Fighting Climate Change
The project supports Forth Climate Forest’s goal to plant 16 million trees in Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling within the next decade. Part of Scotland’s International Environment Centre at the University of Stirling, Forth Climate Forest aims to foster a net zero regional economy in Forth Valley and serve as a global model for low-carbon growth. Grassroots efforts like Trees for Goals highlight how local initiatives can drive transformative environmental change.
“Football has the power to bring communities together, and this project shows how that same spirit can tackle big challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss,” said Doug Worrall, Director of the Forth Climate Forest.
“We’re aiming to plant 16 million trees in the areas that need them most – helping neighbourhoods cope with extreme weather, creating habitats for wildlife, and advancing net zero goals. Trees for Goals is a fantastic example of how everyone – from junior players to their families – can play a part in this mission.
“Every time these kids score, they’re making a difference for their local environment. Planting trees not only helps protect communities from flooding and creates spaces for wildlife to thrive but also reduces the impact of extreme weather – all of which means fewer games are disrupted. It’s a win-win for football and the environment.”
Josh Thornhill, Operations Manager at TCV Scotland explained the project’s environmental impact: “Native trees provide so many benefits, from supporting wildlife to reducing the risk of extreme weather impacting local areas.
“Trees for Goals shows how small actions can make a massive difference, and we’re thrilled to see Alloa Saints embracing this initiative with such enthusiasm.”
Getting the Ball Rolling
Junior players kick started the tree planting last Thursday (28 November) at Clackmannan County Cricket Club. Over the winter, the team and their families will plant hundreds more trees making a lasting impact both on the pitch and in their community.
The initiative’s success in Forth Valley is paving the way for a potential rollout across Scotland in 2025/26. With support from the Scottish Football Association (SFA) and further funding, Trees for Goals aims to grow into a national programme. FEL Scotland and partners are seeking £30,000 to ensure sustainable development and broad engagement.
Sarah explained: “This pilot project is just the beginning. With support from the Scottish Football Association and additional funding, Trees for Goals aims to expand across Scotland in the 2025/26 season, encouraging even more teams to connect football with climate action.”
Follow the project’s journey with hashtags #TreesForGoals #FELProjectClimate #LetsDoNetZero #TCVScotland #ForthClimateForest #AlloaSaints #SaveOurGrassroots
