Rail passengers raise funds to help biodiversity

The contributions have been made possible through a new partnership between Southeastern and Kent Wildlife Trust

Passengers travelling on Southeastern trains have raised over £4,500 to help preserve biodiversity across Kent, the rail operator has said.

The contributions have been made possible through a new partnership between Southeastern and Kent Wildlife Trust.

In June, a scheme was introduced to give passengers the opportunity to donate some money when buying tickets via the Southeastern website or app.

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 funding builds on Southeastern's ongoing work with Kent Wildlife Trust in developing biodiversity plans to make its network of over 180 stations and depots more welcoming to nature.

Southeastern said it was taking steps forward to enhance its own sustainability, which included reducing carbon emissions by 32.8% over five years, installing solar panels across three engineering depots and creating over 60 gardens at stations across its network.

The funding builds on Southeastern's ongoing work with Kent Wildlife Trust

Astrid Agnew, head of digital at Southeastern, said: "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."

Mr Jobling added: "The funds raised will help us continue our vital work protecting Kent's wildlife and natural habitats for future generations."