5 Million Trees Planted in Woodland Trust and Lloyds 'Landmark' Tree-Planting Initiative

In a sweeping effort to reshape Britain's countryside and curb the effects of climate change, farmers and landowners have now helped plant an astonishing five million native trees—a pivotal halfway mark in a decade-long mission launched by the Woodland Trust and Lloyds Banking Group.

The initiative, launched in January 2020, aimed to achieve an ambitious goal: planting 10 million native trees by 2030. Now, as 2024 draws to a close, that vision has reached a powerful milestone, realized through the collaboration of over 3,700 farmers and landowners across the UK.

"The agricultural sector is in a period of turbulence which will undoubtedly bring a great deal of change. However, the need to decarbonise the sector to help mitigate the impact of climate change is not likely to alter, particularly with the NFU's 2040 carbon neutral target for the industry still in progress," says Mr Makowiecki.

The campaign’s momentum stems from two tailored schemes designed to remove traditional barriers to participation: MOREwoods and MOREhedges. Both programs have proven crucial in making the planting process accessible, practical, and cost-effective.

"Reaching the halfway mark is a great achievement, but now we're looking ahead. We want to encourage even more farmers and landowners to consider how integrating trees and hedgerows can form part of their transition to a lower carbon future," adds Mr Makowiecki.

The MOREhedges scheme, for instance, supports landowners planting at least 100 metres of hedging that connects or complements existing woodland. For those who meet the criteria, up to 75% of the total cost is covered, significantly lowering the financial threshold for entry.

"The role of farmers in shaping a greener, more resilient landscape cannot be overstated.

"Planting trees and hedgerows delivers benefits beyond climate mitigation, from helping to reduce soil erosion and supporting flood management to providing habitats for pollinators and other beneficial species, as well as enhancing livestock grazing.

"By participating in these schemes, farmers are not only contributing to national environmental goals but also enhancing the long-term productivity and sustainability of their own businesses," concludes Mr Makowiecki.

On the other hand, the MOREwoods scheme invites anyone with half a hectare or more of land to plant at least 500 trees, offering a scalable solution for those looking to diversify land use or enhance ecological value.

Critically, the support goes beyond just financial backing. Expert guidance and hands-on advice are also integrated into the offering, enabling participants to make informed decisions that benefit both their land and the environment in the long term.

At its core, this partnership isn't just about hitting a number. It's about embedding regenerative practices into the agricultural fabric of Britain, one tree and one hedgerow at a time. With five million trees rooted firmly in the ground, this collaboration has already redefined what’s possible when finance, farming, and forestry align.