By Cait Crudden
In a symbolic gesture of environmental stewardship, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) and PSEG Chief Operating Officer David Lyons, along with PSEG Foundation and the Arbor Day Foundation spearheaded a tree-planting initiative on Friday, April 19, just ahead of Earth Day, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Against the backdrop of growing concerns about climate change and ecological degradation, the event served as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action in safeguarding the planet for future generations.
The tree-planting ceremony, held at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge, brought together a diverse array of participants, including residents, volunteers, and government officials. Against the backdrop of chirping birds and rustling leaves, volunteers rolled up their sleeves providing more than 250 customers in Suffolk County with a free tree through the Energy-Saving Trees program. All customers that participated received one tree and were expected to care for and plant them in the location provided by the online tool, considering utility wires and obstructions. The types of trees offered include the following: gray birch, eastern white pine, flowering dogwood, and scarlet oak.
For Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Earth Day represents more than just a symbolic observance—it’s a call to action.
“We continue to identify and find every opportunity to make Suffolk County environmentally sustainable, and planting just one tree can make a difference,” Romaine emphasized ahead of the ceremony. “We encourage all of our residents to take part in the PSEG Long Island Energy Saving Trees program and work collaboratively to embrace clean energy and improve our region’s air quality. Together we will continue to raise awareness and make a difference.”
PSEG’s Chief Operating Officer David Lyons echoed these sentiments, highlighting the company’s longstanding commitment to environmental responsibility.
“Earth Day is a chance for all of us to stand up and do our part to help build a greener, more equitable future,” said Lyons. “Strategically planting trees helps save up to 20% on summer energy bills once the trees are fully grown, while also improving air quality and reducing storm water runoff for all residents across Long Island and the Rockaways.”
The collaborative effort between Suffolk County and PSEG underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in tackling pressing environmental challenges. Through joint initiatives like this tree-planting event, the two entities are working together to promote environmental awareness, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration.
Indeed, the benefits of tree planting extend far beyond aesthetics. Trees play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, purifying the air, and providing habitat for countless species of flora and fauna. By expanding the county’s tree canopy, Suffolk County and PSEG are not only enhancing the quality of life for residents but also contributing to global efforts to combat climate change while reminding residents of the dangers of planting them directly under electrical and cable wires.
The tree-planting ceremony also served as an opportunity to educate the public about the importance of environmental conservation. Volunteers were there to give guidance on proper planting techniques and inform residents about the ecological significance of the trees they were planting.
As Earth Day festivities continue around the globe, Suffolk County and PSEG’s collaborative effort serves as a shining example of the power of collective action in addressing environmental challenges. By coming together to plant trees, individuals and organizations alike are making a tangible difference in the fight against climate change and demonstrating their commitment to building a more sustainable future.
With each tree planted, a seed of hope is sown—a hope for a world where nature thrives, communities flourish, and future generations inherit a planet teeming with life. As Suffolk County and PSEG continue their journey towards sustainability, their partnership serves as a beacon of inspiration for others to follow suit.
