South West construction firm Beard has bought 180 acres of woodland near Bristol for an undisclosed sum.
The purchase of Wrington Warren - a rolling expanse of trees, bowers and pastures under the Mendip Hills - is part of a long-term strategy by Beard to minimise its environmental impact, the company said. The business already invests in UK forestry and has pledged to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
According to the firm, which has offices in Bristol, Swindon, Oxford and Guildford, the vast area – the size of more than 102 football pitches - could offset its entire annual carbon footprint through carbon sequestration.
Biological carbon sequestration takes place when carbon is stored in natural environments. The process sees carbon dioxide binding to plants during photosynthesis, where it is purified and converted to oxygen.
Beard has said it is investigating the possibility of using the woodland as an environment for staff and company activities, as well as a space for “wilding” activities for schoolchildren as part of its community engagement.
Deputy chairman Neil Sherreard, who managed the purchase, said: “The reality of carbon reduction in our sector is through residual offsetting and this purchase will see us take a huge leap forward.
“It demonstrates the seriousness of our continuing drive to have as little impact as possible on the environment. We see this as a long-term commitment. As well as offsetting our environmental footprint, we will ensure that this woodland survives and thrives for future generations."
Like this story? Why not sign up to get the latest South West news straight to your inbox.
