In September, members of the Carbon Club traded their desks for the serene landscape of the Scottish Borders, where they visited a thriving woodland to see the tangible impact of their membership. This experience offered a unique opportunity to witness first-hand how the Carbon Club’s work contributes to carbon sequestration and forest restoration in the UK.

Discovering the Heart of Corehead Woodland

The day began with a guided tour led by Adrian from Borders Forest Trust, a passionate site manager who oversees the Corehead woodland. Under Adrian’s guidance, the group learned about the diverse tree species inhabiting the forest and the significant role they play in carbon storage and enhancing local biodiversity. Adrian highlighted how this woodland has become a sanctuary for both wildlife and people, with volunteers often finding a sense of purpose and healing through their conservation efforts.

“The land gives something back to everyone.” – Adrian, Borders Forest Trust.

 A group of people in jackets walks on a grassy path surrounded by trees under a cloudy sky.

Lunch & Learn: The Impact of the Carbon Club

After the tour, it was time to head back to the cabin for a well-deserved lunch. While enjoying sandwiches and tea, the group gathered to hear from Steve, founder of Forest Carbon. Steve shared the inspiring history of the Carbon Club, explaining its origins and how it’s tied to Forest Carbon’s mission to foster nature-based solutions for climate change.

The Carbon Club has supported 15 major projects, including woodlands and peatlands across the UK, particularly in Northumberland, Cumbria, and Scotland. Through membership, the Club has played a significant role in carbon offsetting and promoting UK-based reforestation projects, making a real difference in the fight against climate change.

A group of people sitting in a wooden cabin, engaged in a conversation about the latest initiatives from the Carbon Club.

Supporting Healthy Woodland: Tree Guard Removal

The day culminated with an essential hands-on activity—removing tree guards to promote the health of the young forest. These plastic guards, while crucial for early tree growth, need to be removed to prevent them from degrading into the soil, contributing to plastic pollution. The task was not only critical for the forest’s future but also symbolic of the commitment to sustainable practices within the Carbon Club.

A group of people from the Carbon Club are removing tree guards in a grassy field, framed by rolling hills and a vivid blue sky.

A Reel Worth Watching: Behind the Scenes

For those curious to see more of the day’s activities, Macs Adventure captured the entire experience in a fun, behind-the-scenes reel. From spotting wildlife to learning about sustainable forestry, it’s a great way to get a glimpse into how Carbon Club membership translates into real-world action for the environment.

Why UK Nature Investment Matters

Visiting Corehead woodland illustrated just how vital it is to invest in UK nature. Whether it's the biodiversity benefits or the essential role forests play in carbon sequestration, these projects are critical to mitigating the effects of climate change. By supporting woodlands like Corehead, Carbon Club members are contributing to a healthier, more resilient future for both people and the planet.

Conclusion: Experiences like these emphasize why investing in UK woodlands is crucial for long-term sustainability. The Carbon Club’s work not only offsets emissions but also restores landscapes, supports biodiversity, and fosters a stronger connection between people and nature.

A group of six people, members of the Carbon Club, stand outdoors in a field with hills and a cloudy sky as their backdrop. They smile proudly behind several large bags having seemingly just completed some tree guard removal.