Experts: UK Tree Production Lags, Jeopardizing Climate Goals

According to a recent report, the UK government is at risk of missing its critical climate and biodiversity targets due to challenges facing the country's tree production sector. The report, released on October 12th, 2025, was compiled by the Woodland Trust, Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), National Trust, and Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

The UK has set a legally binding goal of planting 40,000 hectares of trees annually by 2030, with over 20,000 hectares expected to be planted in the 2023/24 financial year - the highest rate in 35 years. However, experts warn that the lack of a designated action plan and a shortage of skilled workers could prevent the country from hitting this ambitious target by the end of the decade.

Beyond the challenges with overall tree planting, the report also highlights the low production of fruit, nut, and amenity trees in the UK, despite their crucial role in agroforestry, city streets, and gardens. Increasing domestic tree production is seen as vital not only for meeting climate commitments but also for improving biosecurity and creating economic opportunities.

The organizations are urging the government to address these issues with a comprehensive action plan to support British tree growers and boost the diversity of trees being produced locally. They argue that investing in the domestic tree sector will pay dividends in building climate resilience, creating skilled jobs, and reducing the country's reliance on imported trees that can bring increased risks of pests and diseases.