Scientists have told the Government that if an extra 4% of the UK land mass were planted with new woodland over the next 40 years, it could be locking up 10% of the nation's predicted greenhouse gas emissions by the 2050s.
The Forestry Commission asked a panel of scientists to prepare the first national assessment of UK forest potential to mitigate climate change and their adaptation needs.
It recommends planting 23,000ha a year over 40 years, a 200% increase in current levels.
The change would increase woodland cover from 12% to 16%, still well below the 37% European average.
The report also notes that trees in towns will help provide shelter, cooling, shade and controlled run-off.
"The Government welcomes Prof Read's report and as a nation we need to plant a very large number of trees over the next 40 years to tackle climate change by bringing down our carbon emissions," said environment secretary Hilary Benn.
"The Government will work with communities and businesses to ensure that this happens."
