By Heather Morrison, Rainforest Volunteer Development Co-ordinator, ACT / Our Rainforest Futures

Today is International Volunteer Day, and this year’s theme is “Every Contribution Matters.” The United Nations is shining a light on how volunteers help deliver the Sustainable Development Goals. I see that in action all the time here in Argyll, in Scotland’s rainforest.

I’m Heather, Rainforest Volunteer Development Co-ordinator with ACT and Our Rainforest Futures, a pilot project supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. ACT is one of the delivery partners, and my role is all about helping people get involved in looking after these special woodlands.

What volunteers have achieved so far

During the development phase of Our Rainforest Futures, more than 150 volunteers have taken part in activities across the rainforest zone. Together they’ve contributed over 545 hours of time to help care for these rare habitats.

Volunteers have joined us from local communities here in Argyll, and from much further afield too, including Inverness, Dundee and Glasgow. I am always struck by how far people are willing to travel to spend a day in the rainforest helping out.

Their support has helped with:

• Planting native trees
• Collecting seeds to help future woodland grow
• Removing invasive rhododendron
• Citizen science and nature walks
• Supporting local woodland networks and engagement

Every session feels different, but the mix of hard work, shared learning, and good humour is always there.

Corporate volunteering in the rainforest

It has been brilliant to welcome corporate volunteer teams to ACT’s Hub at Kilmory as part of this work. Staff from organisations like J.P. Morgan, Low Carbon, Balfour Beatty and DRAX have rolled up their sleeves to support our tree nursery development, plant native trees and learn how to care for them, and generally learn more about Scotland’s rainforest.

These days help us get through big practical tasks more quickly. They also give teams a chance to step away from screens, spend time together outdoors and feel part of something positive for the environment. I often hear people say they feel both tired and refreshed by the end of the day.

Why this matters for nature and people

Scotland’s rainforest is globally important, but much of it is threatened by invasive species, fragmented habitats and a changing climate. Volunteers are helping to change that. They bring energy, curiosity and care into the forest.

Spending time outdoors with others also supports wellbeing, confidence and a sense of connection. People leave with new skills, new friends and a deeper appreciation for the natural spaces on their doorstep.

For me, that is what International Volunteer Day is really about. Every person, every session and every small action adds up. It all matters.

Thank you to everyone who has volunteered so far, and to everyone who helps make this work possible. Every contribution really does matter, for the rainforest and for the communities who care about it.