Katwijk expands birth tree initiative for 2026: A green legacy for every newborn
Parents in Katwijk, Valkenburg, and Rijnsburg can now apply for a free birth tree for children born in 2026. The initiative, which creates a lasting memory while greening the municipality, has been extended after its success in 2025.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Initiative | Geboorteboom (Birth Tree) |
| Municipality | Katwijk, Valkenburg, Rijnsburg |
| Eligibility | Parents of children born in 2026, including stillborn or deceased infants |
| Application Period | Open throughout 2026 |
| Tree Distribution | Autumn 2026 and Spring 2027 |
| Tree Types | Coastal climate-resistant species |
| Application Link | katwijk.nl/geboorteboom |
| Councillor Quote | Jacco Knape: Celebrating new life and a greener Katwijk |
The Katwijk municipality is responsible for local environmental initiatives and community engagement programs. This birth tree initiative reflects their commitment to sustainability and creating meaningful connections between residents and their surroundings.
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external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
A tree for every child
The Katwijk municipality’s "Geboorteboom" (Birth Tree) initiative is being extended. Following its success in 2025, parents of children born in 2026 can also apply for a birth tree. The initiative aims to create a lasting memory of a child’s birth while further greening the municipalities of Katwijk, Valkenburg, and Rijnsburg.
A lasting memory
A birth tree is a tree that grows alongside a child. For many parents, the tree serves as a special and enduring reminder of their child’s birth. Parents of children who were stillborn or passed away shortly after birth can also request a birth tree. For them, the tree can become a place of remembrance and significance.
How does it work?
Parents of children born in 2026 can apply for a free birth tree via katwijk.nl/geboorteboom. Applications are open throughout the year. The trees will be distributed during special giveaway days during the planting season, scheduled for autumn 2026 and spring 2027. After registering, parents will receive further details.
Suitable trees
Parents can choose from a variety of tree species well-suited to Katwijk’s coastal climate. The trees are small when distributed, making them easy to plant in a garden, front yard, or even in a pot on a balcony. This way, not only does the tree grow with the child, but the municipality also becomes progressively greener.
Councillor Jacco Knape: “It’s wonderful to see so many parents apply for a birth tree. With these trees, we celebrate new life and, together, contribute to a greener Katwijk.”