Forest Carbon | Bowshiel

100 years

Project lifetime

6,590 tCO2e

Est. removal over lifetime

27,000

Trees planted

About this project

The new woodland extends an existing oakwood which had retreated higher up the valley, and it is already having a marked benefit on the biodiversity of the area. From supporting the habitat of 36 protected species including notable bats, tree-nesting birds, and even the rare fritillary butterfly, to increasing the number of field layer flowers like bluebells, this restoration proves the power of nature in its natural state.

In addition, the owners recognise the importance of connecting people with nature, hosting woodland experiences like foraging, tree planting and outdoor feasts which are perfect for purpose-driven, ‘blue sky’ team-building days, or simply a nice day out with a loved one.

Biodiversity uplift

This project was developed to increase the amount, and variety, of flora and fauna species in the area.

Diversified income for project host

Hosts, often farmers, have diversified their portfolio through this project, bringing in income from previously unproductive land.

Public access to green spaces

Gates and paths make this project accessible to the public, improving access to green spaces for the surrounding community. Access to nature is proven to positively impact mental health and well-being.

Habitat conservation

This project supports the habitat of important species native to the areas.

Improved water quality

By absorbing and/or filtering water, this project is helping to improve water quality in the surrounding and downstream area.

“We really want to get behind and support British land owners and British farmers. Forest Carbon has played a vital role. They have matched us with the right partner, we’re really well-aligned.

~ Matt Ryan, Sales Director of Oxbury Bank

Oxbury Bank visits Bowshiel

Oxbury Bank helped to create this woodland by purchasing its entire bank of Woodland Carbon Code-validated carbon credits. In this video, we follow them as they visit the woodland for the first time...

Our involvement

Forest Carbon's relationship with Bowshiel began when the Tomlyns reached out for support validating their woodland under the Woodland Carbon Code. After navigating them through the WCC process, and supporting its development with some early funding, we went on to help them market this unique project, which caught the attention of Oxbury Bank. They bought the entire bank of carbon credits from this project in March 2024.

Assess eligibility and potential

We began by reviewing the project – mapping woodland features, assessing the length of the project, identifying potential barriers (and their solutions) to success, and calculating available carbon units and revenue potential. This meant we could proceed with the Woodland Carbon Code validation with confidence in success.

Achieve Woodland Carbon Code validation

Together with an independent certification body and the relevant stakeholders, we collated the necessary information and documentation to achieve Woodland Carbon Code validation. Over 15 years of experience with the Woodland Carbon Code ensures this process is streamlined. For example, we group projects in the WCC certification process so that costs can be shared.

Market and sell the credits

We helped the Tomlyns sell the credits (PIUs) from this project. This included generating marketing materials, drumming up interest, and liaising with prospective buyers. In early 2024, Oxbury Bank bought the entire bank of credits. Forest Carbon created the contract and managed the agreement process.

Verifications going forward

The Woodland Carbon Code requires verifications (going out on-site to count trees and check on tree growth and health) at year 5, and then every 10 years thereafter. Forest Carbon takes on that responsibility, ensuring that the project continues to meet the Woodland Carbon Code’s standards.

Hear the landowner's story

The Tomlyns have proven that it’s possible to combine biodiversity uplift with economic sustainability. To be bold and trust nature. Watch their story here...

“Without Forest Carbon, we would have struggled to plant so many trees. They’ve given us their expertise; they’ve guided us through the process.”

~ Hedley Tomlyn, Bowshiel owner

Results so far

The land – previously an over-grown, neglected plantation of non-native conifers and invasive species – is now a thriving oakwood, peppered with other natives like Birch, Rowan, Hazel, Hawthorne, Holly, Aspen, Wild Cherry and Alder.

Bowshiel is Woodland Carbon Code validated. The full bank of carbon credits that it generated was bought by Oxbury Bank in March 2024. If you'd like to support a project like Bowshiel, please get in touch with our team!

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