England’s non-woodland trees have been mapped for the first time using advanced laser detection and satellite technology.

Scientists at the UK’s Forest Research agency have created a detailed map showing individual trees in both urban and rural settings. This innovative tool, launched Saturday, will help conservation groups and local authorities plan targeted tree-planting strategies.

By identifying isolated trees that could link to nearby wooded areas, the map aims to strengthen habitats and support biodiversity. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) says the project supports the UK government’s goal to expand nature-rich habitats and meet the legal target of increasing England’s woodland canopy to 16.5% by 2050.

The forestry minister, Mary Creagh, said: “Our precious street trees improve air quality, mark the changing seasons and provide us with peace, shade and joy. Their value simply cannot be overstated.

“This groundbreaking new tree census will not only help us better understand our current tree canopy cover, but allow us to identify areas where we can create more nature-rich habitats for wildlife and people to enjoy as part of our plan for change.”

Sir William Worsley, the chair of the Forestry Commission, said: “This has been a real endeavour by the team – the results are spectacular and will be invaluable to us as we strive to meet our legal target to increase tree-planting cover.

“The map fills critical data gaps about our national tree assets, helping us understand this natural resource and the benefits it brings, including carbon storage. Many people – from citizens to governments – will use the map to make evidence-based decisions to improve management and protection of our trees.”

Freddie Hunter, the head of remote sensing at Forest Research, said: “This is an exciting moment. By using the latest technology, we have been able to pinpoint all tree cover across England, including trees outside of woodland for the first time.

“This laser technology measures the Earth’s surface using satellite imagery, which we can use to capture tree canopy cover to form a comprehensive picture across the breadth of the country, and will be vital in informing future tree-planting.”

According to the map, lone trees account for 30% of the country’s total tree cover. These individual trees are crucial for storing carbon, regulating urban temperatures, and reducing climate change impacts like flooding and heatwaves. In towns and cities, they also contribute to public health by improving air quality and enhancing green space access.

The map is fully automated and can be updated regularly to track changes in tree canopy cover over time.

Funded by Defra’s Natural Capital and Ecosystem Assessment (NCEA) programme, it is part of a broader push to restore and expand England’s woodlands. This includes a new national forest, efforts to increase timber use in construction, sustainable housing plans, and a dedicated tree-planting taskforce.

 

 

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