Client: Carbon Bank (Green Britain Group)

Locations: Bowyers Wood (Sussex) & Downicary Farm (Devon)

Date: November 2024

The challenge

Carbon Bank, a division of the Green Britain Group, set out to create high-quality, nature-based carbon solutions through woodland ecosystem creation at Bowyers Wood in Sussex and Downicary Farm in Devon. Their mission was clear: to sequester atmospheric carbon, restore ecosystems, and combat climate change—without falling into the trap of corporate greenwashing.

To achieve this, they needed a long-term partner capable of designing, registering, creating, and maintaining these woodland projects. The challenge was to ensure the woodlands delivered genuine environmental and social benefits while aligning with evolving carbon accreditation standards and maximising ecosystem services.

The solution

Land & Heritage’s multi-disciplinary team brought a holistic, science-led approach to the project, balancing biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and community engagement.

Our approach included:

• Ecosystem-based woodland design – Rather than a one-size-fits-all planting scheme, we tailored the woodland creation to each site’s ecological characteristics.

• Integration with Carbon Accreditation Standards – We assessed the suitability of the Woodland Carbon Code, Wilder Carbon Standard, and BSI Flex NIS to ensure the project met rigorous verification criteria.

• Maximizing Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) – We identified opportunities for habitat mosaics, edge habitats, and wet woodlands to enhance biodiversity alongside carbon sequestration.

• Stakeholder engagement & community buy-in – We employed a participatory approach, engaging landowners, local communities, and regulatory bodies to ensure long-term project success.

• A long-term monitoring strategy – We developed a robust system to track carbon sequestration, biodiversity improvements, and ecological resilience over time.

The result

• Projected carbon sequestration – Over 30 years, the Sussex site (34 Ha) is expected to capture 4,050 tonnes of CO₂e, while the Devon site (8.7 Ha) will sequester 1,050 tonnes of CO₂e.

• Genuine nature-positive impact – Rather than monoculture plantations, these sites will develop into thriving, biodiverse woodlands, incorporating native tree species, riparian habitats, and species-rich edges.

• Community and stakeholder support – Through early and transparent engagement, concerns about land-use changes were addressed, fostering public trust and support.

• Blueprint for future woodland creation – The project sets a precedent for responsible, high-integrity carbon finance initiatives in the UK.

Looking ahead

With planting set for 2026, this project will not only contribute to the UK’s carbon sequestration goals but also provide a replicable model for landowners looking to create ecologically and financially sustainable woodlands.

Let’s talk

If you're planning a woodland creation project and want to balance carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and financial sustainability, we can help. 

Reach out today to discuss your project needs.