The volunteering scheme aims set an example to Londoners and encourage them to spend at least one day a year doing their bit for organisations that try to protect and enhance the capital’s environment.

Mayor Boris Johnson also pledged that he and his senior advisors will roll up their own sleeves and volunteer.

The Environment Trust, the London Wildlife Trust and Spitalfields City Farm are among a list of organisations that staff are being encouraged to sign up for.

“There are an army of marvellous people that are doing a fantastic job to make our local neighbourhoods and green spaces cleaner and more pleasant,” Mr Johnson said.

“I want to see even more Londoners getting involved in those organisations helping to make their environment better, and it is only right that me and my senior staff lead by example.”

The Environment Trust, which works on social and environmental projects across London, welcomed the announcement.

Jon Aldenton, chief executive of the Environment Trust, said: “We welcome all types of active citizenship so today’s announcement by the Mayor is great news.

“It’s good to hear the trust’s efforts will be aided by this push for even more volunteers. We have a wide range of exciting hands-on activities for Londoners to get involved with.”

Greater London Authority staff – which does not include those working Transport for London and the London Development Agency – can request up to three days annually to undertake work for voluntary and charitable schemes under an existing scheme.

What do you think of the scheme? Would you give up your own time for London’s environment? Follow this link to give us your views.

Kate Martin

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