Oplo launches new tree planting initiatives in Scotland and Lancashire

Oplo invites customers and employees to play their part in tackling climate change

Leading UK consumer lender Oplo is inviting all new customers to join their mission to protect our planet and radically accelerate the reduction of carbon emissions. With the ambition to become carbon neutral by the end of 2021, Oplo has joined forces with two partners to tackle climate change with new tree planting initiatives – one in Scotland, and one closer to Oplo’s headquarters in Lancashire.

In a dedicated protected area in the Scottish Highlands, Oplo has teamed up with Trees for Life and is planting a new tree in the Oplo Grove for every new customer choosing to take out a loan with Oplo. The planting of new trees in the Oplo Grove will create safe homes for wildlife as well as forests fit for the future.

A similar approach is being taken by Oplo in its sustainability partnership with Leighton Hall Estate, Carnforth, set within Lancashire’s Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).  The aim here is to re-establish woodland with the planting of up to 30,000 trees.  Additionally, Oplo employees will have the opportunity to make their own Oplo Impact with an exciting schedule of volunteering projects planned.

Commenting on the two initiatives, Steve McNicholas, Chief People Officer at Oplo, said:

“Creating a positive social impact is a big part of why Oplo exists. We have a track record of doing business the right way while delivering a positive impact for our customers, our people and our community and we want to extend this impact to the planet.

“We are delighted to offer our customers and our employees a practical, hassle-free option to make a meaningful and genuine difference to protecting our planet.”

Colin Mackenzie-Blackman, Head of Fundraising and Engagement at Trees for Life, added:

“Rewilding requires long-term vision and commitment which is why we are delighted to welcome Oplo as partners with Trees for Life.  The Trees for Life vision of a wild forest in the Scottish Highlands, enabling communities to thrive and wildlife to flourish.  With Oplo’s support, we are a step closer to realising that vision.”

Lucy Arthurs, Estate Manager at Leighton Hall Estate said:

“Oplo’s support accelerates our ability to re-establish woodlands that contribute to the national drive for long term stabilization and reduction in carbon. By having a local partner we can create a sense of ownership by encouraging employees to not only help to plant the trees, but also bulbs and woodland fauna such as primroses. This engagement directly supports the estate and AONB woodland connectivity program for nationally endangered butterflies and pollinators.”

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About Oplo:

• Oplo is one of the UK’s leading providers of customer credit, offering personal loans, home loans and car finance to the emerging “new mainstream” market of consumers seeking credit.

• Oplo makes it easier for people to access fair, expert lending with excellent personalised customer service powered by modern, innovative technology.

• Oplo helps thousands of people a year to improve their credit scores and become better borrowers for the future.

• Oplo has over £300m assets under management and is on-track to realise its ambition of becoming the largest direct-to-consumer lender of its type in the UK.