The RSPB and Tesco have formed a partnership to tackle deforestation in the world’s major rainforests.

Dubbed ‘Together for Trees’, the joint venture between the UK’s biggest retailer and Europe’s largest wildlife conservation charity, announced today, aims to increase awareness of deforestation and raise funds to support on-the-ground conservation work.

‘Together for Trees’ plans to raise over £1m for the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) in its first year. Through the scheme, Tesco customers will be able to donate their green Clubcard points, Clubcard vouchers or give money directly to the programme via a new website.

RSPB cites deforestation as a major contributor to climate change, claiming that it causes more carbon dioxide to be released into the atmosphere than the world’s transport sector.

Martin Harper, RSPB conservation director, commented: “Tesco is an ideal partner to help us tackle this worldwide problem [of deforestation]. I am delighted that this partnership will help raise funds and awareness.”

The money raised by 'Together for Trees' will be spent on the RSPB’s rainforest projects across the world, including Harapan Rainforest in Indonesia, Gola Rainforest in West Africa and Centre Hills National Park in Montserrat, a UK Overseas Territory in the West Indies.

Funds raised by the partnership will support conservation work such as the replanting of native trees and providing equipment for teams of researchers and conservationists.