Responding to a new report published by Friends of the Earth, the SNP has challenged the next UK Government to match the SNP’s record and ambitious targets.
The report reveals that funding for tree planting and forestry in England in 2017-18 fell by 43%.
In contrast, funding in Scotland increased as the SNP Government steps up efforts to tackle the climate emergency.
Recent figures published by the House of Commons Library also found a significant gap in tree planting between Scotland and the rest of the UK – with Scotland planting 22 million trees last year alone - 84% of UK tree planting.
Responding to the report, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“Ahead of National Tree Week the Westminster parties must commit to further tree planting across the UK and match the SNP’s record and ambitious targets for the future.
“Under the SNP the 22 million trees planted last year, will increase to 24 million next year.
“Climate change is a huge challenge. With the Confederation of Forest Industries recognising the SNP’s record, it is high time both Labour and the Tories take action.
“However, we know there is much more that can be done.
“At this election a vote for the SNP is a vote to escape Brexit and put Scotland’s future into Scotland’s hands so we can tackle the climate emergency head on without the continued chaos and constraints of Westminster.”
Friends of the Earth: https://policy.friendsoftheearth.uk/insight/public-funding-uk-trees-woodlands-and-forests
House of Commons
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