Introducing James our new CEO

James Whitehead

It is a remarkable privilege to be joining the International Tree Foundation. One of the things that makes me most excited about joining ITF is its longstanding commitment to transformational tree planting.

I am committed to ITF’s approach, honed over decades, where it works in close partnership with local communities in different parts of the world to achieve impact for both people and planet. Some tree-planting schemes are simply about numbers – how many, how cheap – but giving precious little attention to which species are suitable to the environment and what wider benefit they provide for communities, for biodiversity, for soil quality and more. Tree-planting is far more than capturing carbon dioxide – and for ITF it always has been.

I was struck in my recent conversation with Professor Roger Leakey, ITF’s Vice Chairman, who has worked on agroforestry for many decades. We discussed how transformational tree planting like that conducted by ITF, can make a contribution to as many as 14 of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. We are committed to holistic, community-led approaches that bring these multiple, long-lasting benefits.

As world leaders gather in Glasgow to ruminate on climate change and hopefully make bold commitments to aver climate crisis, we will be there, planting trees around the city and encouraging bolder action and a holistic, transformational approach that values communities. I feel proud to be part of an organisation with dirt under its finger nails and a practical commitment to making a difference on the ground through transformational tree planting.

James Whitehead joins us from Forest Peoples Programme, where he served as director and brings with him 20 years’ experience in the development and environmental sector.