It is little surprise that "Energy From Trees" is the central theme of this years National Tree Week, which will run next week from March 4 to 10. Launched recently by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern TD, the week will comprise of more than 300 free public events, which will take place across the country.

National Tree Week is organised by the Tree Council of Ireland and jointly sponsored by O2 and Coillte.

According to the Tree Council of Ireland, the aim of National Tree Week is to raise awareness about trees and encourage local communities to participate in the events which will take place around the country during the week. These events range from forest walks, seminars, talks and workshops to tree planting ceremonies and exhibitions. And, on a truly practical level, over 15,000 trees, supplied by Coillte, will be distributed to schools and community groups by every local authority in the country.

Speaking at the launch of National Tree Week, which took place appropriately enough in the sylvan surroundings of Farmleigh in the Phoenix Park, the Taoiseach spoke of the importance of trees from an environmental perspective.

"The theme for this year is Trees for Energy, " he said.

"When we think of trees, and more specifically the concept of forests, many things come to mind - principally their place in nature. But forestry is also about the wider environment. It is about clean air, it is about jobs, it is about health and recreation. Wood is a clean, renewable, effective and indigenous source of energy - particularly for heat.

"The focus on renewables and particularly home produced fuels has greatly increased in recent times with growing awareness of the urgency of the issue of climate change, but also as a result of the rise in the price of imported fossil fuels and concerns about the security of international supplies, " he continued. "The Government has put in place a crossdepartmental approach to developing and implementing renewable energy policy. A target of 13% of energy production from renewable sources by 2010 has been set, and wood will play a significant role in achieving this target. In 2004, wood provided nearly 60% of all Ireland's renewable energy - that is a figure many people are not aware of. Wood biomass is one of the most versatile of renewable energy resources and most importantly is also carbon neutral, sustainable and locally grown."

Further information on National Tree Week and the events taking place around the country is available on www. treecouncil. ie or by calling The Tree Council of Ireland on 01 2849211. Free events guides are available from all O2 Stores and Coillte offices.