Page 4 - Demo

4The Mersey Forest PlanSummaryTrees and woods are a nature-based solution to manyof the urgent crises and challenges that we currently face %u2013 climate, nature, timber security, and physical and mental health. The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, one of the least forested in Europe, and the world%u2019s second largest net importer of forest products. Major public health challenges include obesity, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory conditions, anxiety, depression, and stress. And all pathways to net zero point to the necessity for more trees to off set residual greenhouse gas emissions. It is crucial that we act now on these issues. In general, the starting point for our work is trees and woods, but these cannot be considered in isolation and must contribute to a thriving mosaic of other habitats.These principles set out why we do the work that we do.This is to bring real and enduring benefits for people, nature, and climate. WHY1. Enrich people%u2019s lives and livelihoods1.1 Balance the delivery of benefits for people with those for nature and climate, delivering on all three where possible.1.2 Work with trees, woods, and other habitats to benefit people%u2019s lives today and in future generations, improving mental, physical, social, and spiritual health and wellbeing.1.3 Work with trees, woods, and other habitats to support people%u2019s livelihoods, underpinning local economies, providing resources, and supporting farm businesses, food, and timber security.1.4 Involve people in what we do.1.5 Take opportunities to deliver at scale, whilst prioritising areas of greatest need for people.455percent of households are within 300m of an accessible greenspace of at least 0.5 hectares size.We need more greenspaces with trees near to people.4