International Day of Forests:
Technology aiding conservation
International Day of Forests on 21st March celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests.
A study by The Nature Conservancy, found that natural climate solutions to protect, better manage, and restore forests, grasslands, and wetlands could contribute a third of the emissions reductions we need to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.*
Most of this carbon storage takes place underground. For example, in UK forests, around 70% of carbon stored is kept in the soil. The rest is stored in the roots, surface litter, and the tree above ground.
Currently covering over 7,000 acres in Warwickshire and Worcestershire, we are creating a climate-change resilient woodland that is:
- Boosting biodiversity
- Safeguarding vulnerable species
- Providing nature-based solutions to fight extreme weather challenges
- Promoting better physical and mental health for people
- Offering career opportunities in the commercial forestry sector
The theme for International Day of Forests this year is technology aiding conservation, so we explore the question, can technology and nature work together to help build a fruitful, brighter future for us all?
Innovation in the Forest
We are helping to reverse centuries of woodland decline by creating and conserving a huge broadleaf forest for the benefit of the environment, wildlife, and people. Here are just a few of the exciting and innovative ways in which we are working to achieve our mission.
Collecting seeds for reforestation
When planting new trees, or indeed entire woodlands, it is best to plant saplings grown from the seeds of trees that have demonstrated climate resilience. Developing seed-lines adapted to the changing local environment is the most sustainable way of futureproofing forests.
Seed collection is something we do at The Heart of England Forest, but we have strict protocols for it. Our team takes no more than half of the seeds available to ensure that there is enough food for wildlife over the winter.
They also meticulously survey and select the parent trees to ensure the traits of the next generation of trees are the most suitable for the changing local environment. They prioritise the seeds of trees that have endured droughts or floods. Bountiful fruiting is another sought-after feature. They also always source seeds from a variety of sites to ensure a range of genetic diversity.
Enhancing biodiverse habitats
The Forest is more than just trees; it is home to an incredible array of habitats, including new tree planting, mature and ancient woodland, grassland, heathland, farmland, and wetland, that enable animals, plants, and people to thrive.
Over the last 5 years we have been building up our knowledge of the Forest by working with local experts and providing training for volunteers in wildlife surveys. Today, we complete 100+ wildlife surveys, as part of our long-term monitoring programme to monitor the State of the Forest. These surveys include the new UK Habitat classification of habitats as well as testing handheld digital mapping equipment.
Bringing the Forest to people
The Forest also uses technology in creative ways, such as photography and videography to tell inspiring stories. By sharing the power and vision of the Heart of England Forest, we hope to inspire people to help us to grow a greener future.
You can make a difference
This International Day of Forests you can make a difference. Wherever you are in the UK, you can support our mission.
