Climate resilient forests

Woman looking up at trees with ipad clipboard

Forests fit for the future

We are working to protect the nation’s forests so that future generations can still enjoy them.

Our climate is changing, threats to our trees are increasing and we need to build resilience. We are making sure our forests have the best chance to thrive. For over 100 years we have changed and adapted to challenges. Today we use the latest science and evidence to help us plan, plant and safeguard the nation's forests.

Mix of different trees seeds on wooden bench

Being more diverse

Growing different types of tree means more will survive in the changing climate. We are designing forests that will thrive in the conditions we expect in 2050 and beyond.

We're choosing different species and sourcing from places where the climate is similar to how our climate could look up to 100 years from now. We will continue to diversify the trees we plant and choose the best trees for the future.

Expanding our forests

With more trees and forests, we will have cleaner air to breathe, better habitats for wildlife and more sustainable wood to use. 

Trees reduce the impact of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide as they grow and storing it as carbon in wood. Planting new areas of forest means we can lock up more. We're committed to growing the nation’s forests by creating new woodlands.

Sence Valley from the air
Red squirrel eating a nut

Being more connected

Joining up woodland across the landscape makes bigger forests for wildlife to thrive and people to enjoy. 

We're connecting forests and other habitats on a large scale, which can reduce the impact of pests and diseases and help make better forests for all. We will continue to restore other vital habitats and ecosystems, for wildlife and climate. 

Taking action to protect

The threat to trees from pests and diseases in increasing. We're looking after our trees and forests helps them to be in better condition than ever.

We're protecting our forests by only supplying healthy trees for planting. All our tree nurseries have thorough biosecurity checks to minimise risk of pests and diseases. We will continue to monitor tree health and manage our forests to prevent or control outbreaks. 

Photo shows someone holding two ash leaves. The one of the left has seven green leaflets that form the overall leaf. The one on the right is a similar form leaf but is brown and wilted, which is a clear indication of ash dieback disease.

How we're acting for climate and nature:

Aerial view of forest in autumn colour with a river running through it
Article
Our climate actions
Healthy forests are vital for a sustainable future. With your support, we're making sure the nation's forests will thrive.
Red squirrel eating a nut
Article
Wildlife thrives in our care
We care for some of the most valuable places for wildlife in the country.
Woman standing with spade next to a log pile
Article
Sustainable timber, flourishing forests
Forests care for us. Together we care for forests.
The new visitor welcome point at Delamere Forest
Article
Net zero by 2030
We're reducing our impact and working towards net zero emissions by 2030.