Andreas Gschwari
Andreas will spend all of 2011 and early 2012 on his epic “Walking for Trees” adventure, covering over 4,600 miles (7,400 km) on foot. After setting off from Brighton on Sunday 6th February, he will walk the entire main island of the United Kingdom plus several outlying islands. If all goes to plan, he will to return to Brighton on 11th February 2012.
Andreas, who is originally from Austria but who has lived in the UK for 10 years, said: “I want to raise as much money as possible for Trees for Life, and to highlight the importance of conservation and tackling climate change, while enjoying a challenging but fun journey through some of the most beautiful countryside in the world.
“The idea for the walk just popped into my head! Bringing together my love for the outdoors and this magnificent country with promoting conservation and raising money for Trees for Life’s brilliant work is a perfect combination. And I’ll be able to drastically reduce my carbon footprint for a year!”
Having grown up in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Andreas says he has enjoyed hiking in mountains for as long as he can remember. He is a long-time supporter of Trees for Life, and has twice joined the charity’s Conservation Holiday Weeks, which allow people of all ages and abilities to take part in direct conservation work in the Highlands.
“Trees for Life is an excellent charity that works tirelessly to restore the Caledonian Forest. It has achieved remarkable results, planting over 900,000 trees so far. Habitats have been created and wildlife has returned to previously barren areas,” said Andreas.
“This work has had a profound impact on the Highlands and is tremendously important. Restoring natural woodland creates habitats, boosts biodiversity, and provides a natural carbon sink that helps to combat climate change.”
During the journey, Andreas will be mainly camping to keep costs down as much as possible, with some stops at friends’ houses, youth and backpacker hostels and occasional B&Bs to dry out, get warm and do his laundry.
Alan Watson Featherstone, Executive Director of Trees for Life, said: “Andreas is providing a superb example of commitment and inspired action through the challenge he has set himself. His coastal walk has the potential to be a life-changing event, and will generate important funding and publicity for our work of restoring the Caledonian Forest.
“This is a hugely positive adventure to take on during 2011, the UN’s International Year of Forests. We wish Andreas lots of wonderful experiences along the way, and look forward to meeting him when he reaches our main office at Findhorn Bay in the spring.”
For more information or to donate, visit Andreas’s website The website also has links to his blog, Facebook and Twitter pages.