UK government announces Western Forest project to plant 20 million trees by 2030

The recent discussions at the Forum on Forests 2025 highlighted significant advancements in the United Kingdom's commitment to forest management and expansion, which could have a lasting impact on local communities and the environment.

The UK government announced ambitious plans to increase tree cover from the current 13.4% to a legally binding target of 16.5% by 2050. This initiative includes the establishment of the Western Forest, which aims to plant 20 million trees across 2,500 hectares by 2030. Such efforts not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also enhance local green spaces, potentially improving air quality and community well-being.

In addition to expanding tree cover, the UK is focused on protecting and sustainably managing its forests. New legislation set to be implemented in December 2024 will strengthen the governance of national parks and landscapes, ensuring they play a crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions and environmental targets. Currently, 44% of UK forests are certified under the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices.

On the international front, the UK is actively promoting sustainable forest stewardship, emphasizing the importance of forests for climate, nature, and communities. The Forest and Climate Leaders Partnership, co-chaired by the UK and Guyana, aims to support indigenous peoples and local communities while promoting sustainable timber and construction practices. This partnership also seeks to enhance financial resources through high-integrity forest carbon markets.

As the UK continues to invest in research and innovation for forest health and management, these initiatives are expected to foster collaboration and drive positive change both locally and globally. The outcomes of these discussions at the Forum on Forests 2025 signal a strong commitment to environmental stewardship that could benefit communities for generations to come.