Launched at the IUCN UK Peatland Programme 2026 conference, 'Native Trees in Peatland Landscapes' aims to stimulate discussion and consideration of the role and importance of native trees in peatland landscapes, advocating for a holistic approach to ecosystem restoration which favours context- and site-appropriate habitat mosaics. 

Although the authorship group largely brings a peatland conservation perspective, the document aims to break down the barriers between those working in ‘habitat silos’ and discuss how native trees can be integrated into peatland restoration planning to create a more resilient approach to conservation. 

The document was co-developed by the National Trust and IUCN UK Peatland Programme. The ideas evolved from the National Trust hosted webinar ‘Trees and Peat – Interactions in Ecosystem Recovery’ and the IUCN UK Peatland Programme Conference workshop ‘Native trees, peat and dynamic landscapes’. It was produced with input from the following organisations: Southwest Peatland Partnership, Forestry and Land Scotland, RSPB, UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Natural England, Defra, DAERA, Natural Resources Wales, NatureScot, University of Exeter, Royal Holloway, University of London, Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Forest Research and Rewilding Britain.

The publication addresses the following:

• The ecology of native trees and peat, explaining where and how they can naturally co-occur.
• Statutory guidance and devolved targets relevant to peatlands and woodlands, helping to demystify differences and signpost support available in different UK nations.
• Principles for decision-making on trees and peat which minimise risks to peatland recovery whilst supporting a return to complex, diverse habitat mosaics including trees.
• Case studies illustrating the application of ecology, guidance and evidence-based decision making.
• Evidence gaps for future research and funding.

The conclusions are clear: 

Policy, guidance and practice must avoid 'habitat silos' and use collaborative, evidence-led approaches which prioritise peatland hydrological function and balance site-specific decisions with the wider landscape context. Doing this will not only help us reach our climate and biodiversity targets, but lay the foundations for diverse, functional and resilient ecosystems of the future with multiple benefits for people and nature.