Forest and peatland scheme sows seed for net zero - University of Edinburgh
Work to plant woodland and restore peatlands in Scotland has begun as part of a project to capture the University of Edinburgh’s carbon emissions.
The scheme – thought to be the biggest of its kind undertaken by a UK university – will offset any carbon emissions that can’t be reduced to zero.
The University will work with partners across Scotland to plant an estimated 2 million trees and restore at least 855 hectares of peatlands, the size of more than 1,200 football pitches.
A 431-hectare site overlooking the Ochil Hills in Stirlingshire and 26 hectares at Rullion Green in the Pentland Hills Regional Park near Edinburgh are the first of several sites that will be regenerated.
Over the next 50 years, the project is expected to remove 1 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, equivalent to more than 9 million car journeys between Edinburgh and London.
The multimillion-pound project is a key component to the University’s drive to reach net zero by 2040, which includes a commitment to reduce carbon emissions to zero across its operations.
Emissions generated from flying, which can’t currently be reduced to zero, will instead be offset using the restored sites.
Enhancing biodiversity
As well as removing and storing carbon from the atmosphere, the planted woodlands and restored peatlands will also play a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity, experts say.
The project team – which includes foresters and ecologists – have worked with consultants to design woodland and habitats to fit with local landscapes.
Open areas will also be maintained to support the existing wildlife. The improved habitats will encourage more native species such as birds, red squirrels, butterflies and moths, the team say.
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Posted On: 07/03/2024