DAERA Minister Andrew Muir launched Northern Ireland first Tree Planting Action Plan: A Plan for Woodland Creation 2026-2032.
It establishes a framework for increasing tree planting while improving governance, collaboration and knowledge sharing across the forestry sector.
Northern Ireland has one of the lowest levels of forest cover in Europe, with woodland currently accounting for just 8.6% of land area.
"The launch of Northern Ireland's first Tree Planting Action Plan comes at a critical juncture for nature and our climate," Mr. Muir said. He added that increased woodland is essential for "natural carbon capture and flood management".
Well-planned forests and woodlands can capture and store carbon, improve air and water quality and provide important habitats for wildlife.
The strategy features 10 strategic priorities and 31 implementation actions focused on improving governance, building sector capacity, strengthening research and increasing awareness of the economic value of trees.
The plan recognises that farmers will be vital to its success.
Rather than competing with agricultural production, the strategy promotes woodland as a land use that can complement productive farming while improving long-term environmental resilience.
A broad range of stakeholders including the Woodland Trust and the Ulster Farmers' Union co-designed the plan to ensure it supports rural economies, through sustainable timber production and green jobs.
The initiative aligns with the Forestry Act (Northern Ireland) 2010, Climate Action Plan and Environmental Improvement Plan.
Success will now depend on continued partnership working across government, landowners, and the forestry sector to ensure new forests deliver lasting environmental and social benefits.
The expansion is seen as a key step in helping Northern Ireland progress toward its long-term net zero ambitions.
