UK Government Launches Western Forest Project to Plant 20 Million Trees by 2050

The initiative, spanning western England, aims to combat climate change, enhance biodiversity, and integrate forestry with farmland.

The Western Forest will cover areas from the Cotswolds to the Mendips, creating 2,500 hectares of new woodland by 2030 and planting 20 million trees by 2050.
Supported by £7.5 million in government funding over five years, the project will also involve private investment and contributions from housing developers.
Nearly 73% of the forest area will integrate trees into farmland using agroforestry, balancing food production with environmental goals.
Concerns have been raised about potential impacts on food security and the displacement of less productive agriculture, such as tenanted sheep farming.
Key collaborators include the Forest of Avon, National Trust, Wildlife Trusts, and Forestry Commission, emphasizing a community-driven approach.