The economic value of individual trees planted outside of forests and woodlands has been revealed by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) at £3.8 billion.
The figures are revealed in a new study published by Forest Research and Defra as part of National Tree Week.
The valuation is based on the role trees play in sequestering and storing carbon, regulating temperatures, strengthening flood resilience and reducing noise and air pollution.
The report aims to help to incentivise councils, land managers and local communities to plant more trees outside of woodlands for the varied and numerous economic benefits they provide.
Forestry Minister Trudy Harrison said:
“This groundbreaking research reaffirms the unique value of non-woodland trees which exist all around us – from the trees lining our streets to those dotted around our beautiful countryside.
“It makes clear the immense environmental and economic value and benefits trees bring to society which cannot be underestimated.
“As set out in our England Trees Action Plan, we have committed to trebling tree planting rates in England by 2024 and by quantifying the significant value of trees, this research will help to incentivise planting in our communities across our country.”
Kieron Doick, Head of the Urban Forest Research Group, Forest Research said:
“Trees outside of woodlands are all around us: in our gardens, along our roads, in our parks and open green spaces.
“Understanding their value can help make sure councils and landowners invest in the planting of more trees, and their aftercare so that they may continue to provide us with their abundant beauty and benefit.
“While our valuation of non-woodland trees is substantial, we recognise that our research valued just a handful of the many benefits that trees provide. Future research will allow greater understanding and increased values as more of the benefits are included.
“Our report shows that trees are valuable infrastructure assets across multiple land uses, much as one might think about lampposts or drains.
“Moreover, it highlights the much greater role of mature trees in delivering benefit to society – in comparison to their younger counterparts.”
