Why plant trees?

Planting trees provides multiple benefits for Scotland, including:

• Mitigating the impacts of climate change by capturing a lot of carbon

  Trees are essential to Scotland's fight against climate change. They draw carbon from the atmosphere and store it. They also help the country adapt to climate change. This includes:

  • reducing flood risks
  • lowering temperatures in urban areas
  • offering shelter and shade for livestock
  • maintaining stable climate conditions necessary for various species 

• Protecting and enhancing our rich biodiversity

  Scotland is uniquely well-placed in Europe in terms of the capacity of our land to support nature-based solutions, including through increased tree cover.

  Achieving Diversity in Scotland's Forest Landscapes

  New woodlands provide habitats for many species, including birds, mammals, insects, and plants. They are also home to 172 protected species.

  Action for Scotland's national woods aims to encourage more people to think about opportunities to manage and create native woodlands. Especially with land managers and owners.

  Action for Nature on Scotland's National Forest Estate

  Woodlands provide habitats for many species, including birds, mammals, insects and plants.

  This diversity supports complex ecosystems and helps maintain ecological balance, providing a home for 172 protected species.

• Woodlands can connect fragmented habitats and create wildlife corridors

  This allows species to move and adapt to environmental changes. They can also provide shade for rivers and streams, cooling water to protect important species like wild salmon. Their roots can hold soil together and stop erosion.

  The Social and Environmental Benefits of Forests in Great Britain: Biodiversity Report 

• Multiple important economic benefits

  Woodlands provide sustainable timber, wood products, and bio-energy. 

  Trees also:

  • support tourism in Scotland
  • help boost farm and croft incomes
  • generate carbon credits