WORK has begun on a climate change and local habitat project spearheaded by the University of Edinburgh.
The first of 570,000 trees have been planted in the initiative that will see the revival of native woodlands in Stirlingshire and the Pentland Hills Regional Park.
The two sites are part of a larger project to replant around 5600 hectares of land across Scotland in a bid to mitigate carbon emissions.
“While we’re just at the beginning of this project, our efforts will ensure that the benefits of our woodlands last for centuries.”
Around half of the 431-hectare site on Dumyat Hill near Stirling and almost a third of a 26-hectare site at Rullion Green south of Edinburgh is being planted on.
The woodlands were designed by foresters and ecologists to fit with local landscapes and build on existing habitats.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh will lead the planting of hundreds of trees by community volunteers in April, collecting and propagating native plant species.
Dr Aline Finger, Scottish plant recovery project lead at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, said: “Our partnership with the University of Edinburgh is a vital next stage in the project.
“Four hundred young wych elm and crab apple saplings are now ready to be planted, and the university’s land will provide safe new sites to give these important native species the chance to survive.
“Many of Scotland’s plant species are at risk of extinction from biodiversity loss and climate change, but the Scottish Plant Recovery project provides real hope for recovery.”
It is hoped the project will provide a valuable case study for carbon and biodiversity researchers, as well as serving as an educational resource for schools and visitors.
Areas not undergoing planting will remain as open habitats, preserving viewpoints and allowing continued public access for walkers.
