Growing our tree and woodland cover is an urgent priority to respond to climate change and meet government targets. Our forest creation helps to connect and buffer existing woodlands to increase resilience, as well as enhancing the rural landscape by reducing pollution and protecting soils. Increasing urban canopy cover and green infrastructure has additional benefits such as improving air quality, providing access for communities and reducing surface water run off.
We create around 200 hectares of new Forest habitats each year with partners such as landowners and local authorities, using a range of mechanisms including grant schemes, helping others to buy land, working through the planning system and supporting communities. Our tree planting is predominantly mixed, native broadleaved species with some conifer and exotic species more tolerant of warmer temperatures. Planting is targeted to the less productive land in the Forest and to those areas that can provide the biggest benefit.
