Southeastern passengers have raised more than £4,500 to support Kent Wildlife Trust’s efforts to protect and enhance biodiversity across the county.
The generous contributions have been made possible through a new partnership between Southeastern and Kent Wildlife Trust. In June this saw the introduction of donation option for customers when buying train tickets via the Southeastern website and app.
The funding builds on Southeastern’s ongoing work with Kent Wildlife Trust in developing biodiversity plans to help ensure its network of over 180 stations and depots is more welcoming to nature.
Astrid Agnew, Head of Digital at Southeastern, said:
“Travelling by train is already one of the most sustainable ways to travel, and each year thousands of people use our network to help them explore Kent’s natural beauty.
“We appreciate all donations that are made to support Kent Wildlife Trust’s important work enhancing regional biodiversity in Kent.”
The new charity donation option builds on Southeastern’s efforts to protect the environment through its Sustainability Strategy.
This has seen the operator make strides in enhancing sustainability, including:
- Reducing carbon emissions by 32.8% between 2019 and 2024.
- Installing solar panels across three engineering depots to produce renewable energy.
- Establishing over 60 gardens at stations across the Southeastern network
- Diverting 99% waste from landfill.
- Launching a carbon footprint calculator on the Southeastern website and app, to help passengers become more aware of rail as a sustainable form of transport.
Paul Jobling, Memberships and Partnerships Manager at Kent Wildlife Trust, said:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Southeastern and its passengers for their generous support. The funds raised will help us continue our vital work protecting Kent’s wildlife and natural habitats for future generations.
“Partnerships like this are crucial in helping us connect people with nature and make a real difference for our local environment.”
Kent Wildlife Trust is the leading conservation charity for the county of Kent, managing 85 reserves for wildlife across a range of habitats - woodlands, meadows, wetlands and heathlands.
The Trust has two education centres and engages with thousands of local children to learn outdoors through Forest School or in their own school grounds. They also give wildlife advice and partner with farmers, landowners and businesses across Kent.
In addition, the Trust's advocacy work ensures development does not negatively impact the environment through powerful campaigns, often in collaboration with local campaign groups.
