Urban Oasis sponsored by M&S

The main sponsor of Operation Groundwork is Marks & Spencer.

Groundwork and M&S have a long and fruitful history of working together to improve the quality of life in communities across Britain.

The support of M&S has been invaluable in helping to launch the Operation Groundwork campaign, create our stunning gardens at this year’s RHS flower shows and fund the preparation of a major report into the importance of urban green space.

Elsewhere, Groundwork’s @myurbangreen campaign is helping communities to shape the future development, maintenance and management of their local green spaces.

Groundwork green space co-ordinators, funded by M&S, will give community groups the tools they need to act on local issues, recruit volunteers and design and deliver activities and events to raise the profile of their work.

@myurbangreen will:
  • Deliver more than 850 community green space activities and events
  • Recruit more than 5,000 volunteers
  • Reach 135,000 people in the wider community
  • Help 300 community groups to improve their ability to support local green space

@myurbangreen builds on the success of Greener Living Spaces – a network of 100 dynamic new or improved green spaces created by Groundwork and M&S at the heart of communities across the country.
Greener Living Spaces was funded from the 1.85p profit on each M&S 5p food carrier bag sold. The money was invested in activity that will improve parks, play areas and public gardens in neighbourhoods around the UK.

M&S launched its Plan A sustainability campaign in 2007, setting out 100 commitments to achieve in 5 years. Plan A has now been extended to 180 commitments to achieve by 2015, with the ultimate goal of becoming the world's most sustainable major retailer.

M&S is working with customers and suppliers to combat climate change, reduce waste, use sustainable raw materials, trade ethically, and help customers to lead healthier lifestyles.