Northern Ireland has introduced its first-ever tree planting action plan, a strategic initiative designed to boost woodland cover across the region. The plan outlines 10 key actions to be implemented over the next five years, with the ultimate goal of achieving 12% woodland cover by 2050.
To reach this target, the current rate of tree planting must more than triple by 2032. Northern Ireland currently has 8.6% woodland cover, making it one of the least wooded areas in Europe. This figure lags behind Scotland (19%), Wales (15%), England (10%), and the Republic of Ireland (11%).
The new action plan was developed collaboratively by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in conjunction with the Woodland Trust, representatives from the Confederation of Forest Industries (CONFOR), forestry companies, environmental non-governmental organizations (eNGOs), the Ulster Farmers' Union, NI Water, and local councils. Environment Minister Andrew Muir highlighted that there is significant work ahead, including raising public awareness about the advantages of increased tree cover.