Mowi Scotland has officially launched its Maol Ban native woodland project with the planting of the first 45 trees out of an anticipated 112,000 trees.
The large-scale reforestation project spans 102 hectares near Mowi’s Caol Mor seawater farm on Loch Ainort, aiming to support biodiversity and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.
Deputy First Minister of Scotland, Kate Forbes MSP, joined Mowi staff and local representatives, including Councillor John Finlayson, at a ceremony on October 21st to plant the inaugural tree. The project, funded by Scottish Forestry, represents a significant partnership with the Scottish Government’s agency responsible for forestry policy and conservation.
Representatives from Mowi Scotland, Galbraith and SM Forestry join Kate Forbes MSP, Deputy First Minister of Scotland, and Councillor John Finlayson to plant the first trees.. Photo: Mowi
The Maol Ban woodland project has been in development for six years and is the first initiative of its kind by an aquaculture company in Scotland. “It is a unique and exciting project that will produce real outcomes that support Mowi’s strategic sustainability programmes and policies on the topics of protecting nature and biodiversity, and delivering actions that contribute to tackling climate change,” stated Stephen MacIntyre, Mowi Scotland’s Head of Environment.
According to Mowi’s estimates, the new woodland will sequester 38,616 tonnes of carbon dioxide over the next century, aligning with Scotland’s Forestry Strategy, which targets increased woodland cover to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through carbon sequestration. The reforestation will prioritize native broadleaf species, including Upland Birch, enhancing soil stability and biodiversity, and creating protected habitats adjacent to the Cuillins Special Protection Area (SPA).
Ben Hadfield, COO of Mowi Scotland, emphasized the significance of the initiative for the company’s environmental commitment. “At Mowi, we are proud of our sustainability credentials in which we provide a sustainable superfood with a low carbon footprint, and that just got even better,” he said. “We are pleased to establish the Maol Ban native woodland at neutral cost, thanks to Scottish Forestry and Scottish Government support, and proud to see the first trees planted with more to follow very soon.”
Ground preparation for the remaining trees has commenced, with the full planting expected to conclude by March 2025. The woodland is designed to complement the scenic value of the Cuillin Hills National Scenic Area, maintaining open ground to preserve its natural beauty. The effort represents a long-term investment in environmental stewardship, supporting Mowi’s goals of habitat preservation and reduced carbon impact.
