Alastair Collier, chief research and development officer at A Healthier Earth, has warned that Britain's forests are facing a crisis due to climate change, with traditional forestry methods no longer fit for purpose. Writing in response to recent coverage of reforestation challenges, he highlights that natural regeneration is failing in many ancient woodlands due to drought, heat, disease and deer grazing.
Collier argues that the current focus on the number of saplings planted, rather than their long-term resilience, is a fundamental flaw. With tree mortality rates increasing by 90%, he says that survival must become the priority for both natural regeneration and new planting schemes.
To build forests that can withstand future conditions, Collier calls for investment in resilience from the outset. He points to innovative techniques such as vertical farming to produce climate-adapted saplings and biochar-enhanced substrates to improve soil health, which have shown promise in yielding stronger, faster-growing trees with higher survival rates.
“Our ancient woodlands are among the UK’s most treasured natural assets,” Collier writes. “If we are to protect and restore them – while ensuring they continue to absorb carbon and support biodiversity – we need a new approach to UK forestry, one with resilience and survivability at its core.”
