Forests and pollinators

Tree planting and forest conservation

The project involves planting approximately 6,000 trees in Tanum and conserving forest in Tväråträsk, Sweden. Trees absorb carbon dioxide as they grow, but the actual amount varies depending on factors such as tree species, growth rate, survival, soil conditions, and the time period.

Based on the project’s calculation data, the initiatives are estimated to correspond to approximately 600 tonnes of CO2e in carbon sequestration, given the period and assumptions specified in the data. The calculation is a projection, not a result that has already been achieved.

Why are we doing this?

At Bozita, we love the Swedish forest. It is not only a wonderful place for you, your dog, and your cat, but also an important carbon sink. Trees absorb carbon dioxide as they grow, and the more they grow, the more carbon dioxide they absorb. Planting more trees and preserving forests can therefore help combat climate change by sequestering carbon. Furthermore, Swedish forests are home to a wide variety of plants and animals; planting trees can help create new habitats for endangered species and boost biodiversity.

Measures for wild pollinators

In Bålsta, the project has implemented measures designed to create food sources, nesting sites, and varied habitats for pollinating insects and other species.

The measures are based on recommendations from the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, Swedish Board of Agriculture and the County Administrative Boards of Sweden, and the results are being followed up over a ten-year period.

For biodiversity, we have:

• Planted selected varieties of trees and shrubs, such as oak, willow, rowan, white oak and hawthorn, guelder rose and blackberry – species that offer high biodiversity values.
• Sown wild meadows to produce pollen and nectar. Attracting many different kinds of pollinators requires a wide variety of flowers, preferably of different varieties so that something is in bloom throughout the season. We use Malmgård Viltfrö’s bee field mix with species that bloom from June to September.
• Placed out two bales of straw, where bees and other insects can build nests.
• Laid out two 10-tonne sand beds, where bees and other insects can build nests.
• Created two fauna depots with a blend of tree stumps, branches and twigs – dead wood that is essential for food and habitats for many plants, fungi, and animals.
• Exposed rocks to create warm surfaces for bees to enjoy.
• Established a traditional hay meadow.
• Established a mini wetland.
• Created a beetle bank.

Why are we doing this?

Bees and other wild pollinators contribute to functioning ecosystems and our food supply. Upwards of 75% of all crops depend fully or in part on pollination from insects. But the situation for wild pollinators is dire, and here in Sweden, one third of our bee species are threatened. Therefore, as Sweden’s biggest pet food producer, we cannot only focus on lowering our emissions and reducing our climate footprint – we must also take responsibility for promoting wild pollinators and preserving biodiversity.

The project results are valid specifically to the sites in question and should not be interpreted as a statement regarding the environmental impact of Bozita’s products or the overall operations of Partner in Pet Food Nordics AB.

Everyone can make a difference!

The more people on board, the greater the difference we can make.

Dog or cat owners – here’s what you can do

No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. Here are a few tips for how you can contribute:

• Learn about the issue – when you understand how biodiversity impacts us and our furry friends, you will be more motivated to take action.
• Outdoor cats are skilled hunters and can harm or kill rodents, birds and lizards, which has a negative impact on biodiversity. As a cat owner, you can do your best to prevent this by putting a bell on your cat’s collar, or not letting your cat go outside at night.
• Picking up after your dog is important for the environment! Dog waste in nature can lead to overfertilisation, resulting in an imbalance in the system that can reduce biodiversity in the long run.
• Transform a bit of lawn at home by planting clover or a wild meadow. (Make sure to buy a seed blend suitable for your region so that you do not spread invasive species, which can worsen the problem.)
• Support politicians and suggested policies that promote biodiversity.
• Support nature and environmental organisations that work with the issue, such as the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation, WWF or Naturarvet.