Phoenix Energy is supporting the Lyric Theatre's 75th anniversary by providing native saplings for a widespread community tree-planting programme. Delivered through Phoenix Energy's long-term partnership with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV), the initiative aims to promote sustainability awareness and local climate action across Northern Ireland.

The project is integrated into the Lyric Theatre's 'Theatre-in-Education' touring production, 'Waste Busters'. Fifty participating primary schools will plant Phoenix-funded trees on their grounds, encouraging pupils to engage directly with environmental issues. Additionally, a new native Alder tree has been planted at the Lyric Theatre itself, replacing a mature tree lost during storms last year and symbolising the venue's enduring legacy.

Rebecca Dalzell, Communications Manager at Phoenix Energy, commented: "At Phoenix, we believe in empowering communities to take action for a sustainable future. Our partnership with The Conservation Volunteers to plant 8,000 native trees a year makes this a reality. It's exciting to see the Lyric Theatre not only celebrate 75 years of cultural heritage but also invest in the next generation's commitment to protecting our environment." As the company celebrates 30 years of gas distribution in Northern Ireland, it is approaching a milestone of 40,000 trees planted. Ms Dalzell added: "We would encourage any local charity, school or community group within the Phoenix Energy licensed area to reach out to us if you have green space that can provide a lasting home to the baby trees that we cultivate through our partnership with TCV this year. All of these indigenous trees need good homes."

Erin Hoey, Head of Creative Learning at the Lyric Theatre, highlighted the educational value of the scheme: "We are delighted to be partnering with Phoenix Energy and The Conservation Volunteers to launch a tree planting initiative to celebrate the Lyric's 75th anniversary! We will be planting over 75 native trees in primary schools across Northern Ireland and one at the grounds of the Lyric. Over 50 schools already engaged in our touring production of 'Waste Busters,' have agreed to plant native saplings in the grounds of their school. The initiative not only marks a milestone year but also reinforces the Lyric's commitment to environmental responsibility and education."

Schools and community groups interested in providing a home for native trees can find more information by visiting phoenixenergyni.com and searching for 'growing green'.