Woodland Trust

Our forestry and woodlands provide many benefits to society including reduced air pollution, climate change mitigation, habitats for wildlife, the alleviation of flood risk and beautiful public spaces. However, the area of new woodland created in England has more than halved in the last ten years and annual planting is now much lower than in 1997. As a result England’s forestry and woodlands occupy less than 10 per cent of our land area, which is one of the lowest levels in the EU.

The Conservative vision for England’s forests and woodlands is one of an increasing area of sustainably managed woodland, which will provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and biodiversity. It is vital we recognise the need for commercial activity, wherever possible, to promote the role of trees in the fight against climate change.  We have also pledged to promote the benefits of trees on farmland in terms of both productivity and the environment.