MSPs back University-led tree-planting initiative

MSPs have endorsed an initiative led by the University of Stirling which will see millions of trees planted across the Forth Valley.

A parliamentary motion in support of Forth Climate Forest tabled by Keith Brown MSP has been signed by 22 MSPs.

The project aims to facilitate the planting of 16 million trees in a decade to help prevent the extremes of flooding and temperatures, purify air and absorb carbon from the atmosphere, and deliver long-term ecological, climate and social benefits.

Trees are being planted in school grounds, on vacant and derelict land, and across parks. In the first year, more than 1,000 hectares of new woodland were created or naturally regenerated across Forth Valley – equivalent to 1,750 football pitches.

Tangible benefits

Keith Brown, the MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane, said: “Marking its first anniversary, the Forth Climate Forest initiative has already made impressive strides in creating new woodlands and regenerating vital habitats across the Forth Valley. This progress demonstrates its potential to transform our landscape for future generations.

“With an ambitious plan to plant 16 million trees over the next decade, this initiative offers a real opportunity to tackle the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss head-on, while delivering tangible benefits to local communities.

“In recognition of its importance, I was pleased to submit a parliamentary motion commending the Forth Climate Forest and the incredible work of its partners, and I am encouraged by the support it has received from across the Chamber. I look forward to continuing to support this important initiative and seeing its positive impact grow in the years ahead.”

Forth Climate Forest covers Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling Councils, as well as a large part of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

It is a partnership initiative, hosted by University of Stirling through Scotland’s International Environment Centre (SIEC).

SIEC is led by the University of Stirling as part of the £214 million Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal that will drive productivity inclusive economic growth throughout the region.

The first trees were planted in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park at Glen Finglas near Brig o’Turk on November 27 last year, the first day of National Tree Week 2023.

Continued progress

Director of Forth Climate Forest, Doug Worrall, said: “As we mark the first year of Forth Climate Forest, it is pleasing to receive this endorsement from Keith Brown MSP and 22 of his parliamentary colleagues from across the political spectrum.

“Over the course of this first year more than 1130 hectares of new woodland was planted or naturally regenerated across the Forth Valley by a range of organisations and landowners. This equates to around 2 million new trees which will help tackle climate change and restore habitats to help wildlife thrive.

“We are grateful to all of our funders and partners, and we look forward to continued progress in the coming years.”

The project was made possible by a combined funding package from the Woodland Trust, Scottish Forestry, three local councils – Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Falkirk.

Forth Climate Forest was previously praised by Mairi Gougeon MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, during a visit to the University of Stirling in February.