The Live Wire

Parliamentary Reception

Peter Luff MP hosted a Parliamentary reception on behalf of the Woodland Trust celebrating woodland creation in the UK. At the reception, the Trust launched its woodland creation manifesto setting out why it is vital to create new woodland in the UK.

Dr James Cooper, Head of Government Affairs, commented: "The UK is one of the least wooded countries in Europe with woodland cover only 11 per cent compared to the European average of 44 per cent. Yet the importance of trees and woods has never been more apparent – they are essential to regulating climate and weather, important for the flow and quality of water, for mitigation of air pollution, soil conservation, storing carbon and adapting society to climate change. "

"Woodland encourages exercise, improves health and reduces mental stresses and creating new woodland offers limitless opportunities for community engagement, learning and volunteering. The Trust is now creating the largest new native forest in England: Heartwood Forest covers 850 acres in St Albans, Hertfordshire. We now need the support of government, business, landowners and the general public to realise the aspiration of doubling woodland cover in the UK."


Woodland Trust

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