Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir has today (Tuesday, July 7) published Northern Ireland's first Tree Planting Action Plan.

The plan consists of 10 strategic actions, supported by 31 implementing actions, to accelerate tree planting rates and support achieving 12% forest cover in Northern Ireland by 2050.

Forestry cover in Northern Ireland currently stands at 8.6%.

Tree planting

According to Minister Muir, A Plan for Woodland Creation 2026 - 2032 reflects his department's "commitment to tackling climate change and biodiversity loss".

The plan aims to improve governance and the implementation of tree planting measures, while also increasing communication, knowledge transfer, education and capacity building.

The document has been co-designed with a range of stakeholders including Woodland Trust, the Confederation of Forest Industries (CONFOR), forestry companies, environmental groups, the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU), NI Water, and local councils.

Minister Muir said "forests add so much to our unique and cherished landscapes".

"The launch of Northern Ireland’s first Tree Planting Action Plan comes at a critical juncture for nature and our climate.

"It aims to build on the aspirations of the Forests for Our Future programme and ensure we ramp up our efforts and address the factors inhibiting woodland expansion," he said.

Woodlands

Minister Muir said increasing woodlands will deliver improved air and water quality, natural carbon capture and flood management, and vital habitats.

"Forests and woodlands provide us with outdoor leisure opportunities and skilled jobs in rural areas. We all set to gain from ambitious afforestation.

"By raising awareness and improving understanding, we can build confidence that farm woodlands are valued assets and a viable land-use that can be integrated into Northern Ireland’s productive agricultural landscape, supporting economically sustainable farm enterprises," he added.