Cwm Fagor woodland

The Cwm Fagor site has a net capacity of 36,413 tonnes of CO_₂e dedicated to offsetting FW Thorpe Plc’s emissions, indicating measurable progress toward reducing overall environmental footprint. Over time, the site will grow into a considerable woodland of diverse native tree species. The Cwm Fagor project has received several awards, including a gold medal at the Royal Welsh Show in 2022.

Size

215 acres

Completed

2023

Founded

2009

Trees planted

179,412

CO_₂e sequestered over a period of 100 years

44,385 Tonnes

Trees and other plants absorb CO_₂ during photosynthesis. One tree grown to maturity in an open space can absorb approximately one tonne of CO_₂ over its lifetime.

At Cwm Fagor, Thorlux and FW Thorpe Plc planted 179,412 trees between 2009 and 2023, with twenty-five distinct species carefully chosen to blend into the character of the secluded valley near the Severn Estuary. This scale of planting creates a lasting carbon sink.

Planting native broadleaf species (including oak, hornbeam, birch, willow, and wild cherry) has linked adjoining ancient woodlands, improved the local environment, and provided a home for increased flora and fauna, such as small mammals, butterflies, and bluebells. The rolling hills of the Gwent region are home to thriving populations of deer, otter, red kite, and kingfishers, all of whom call the woodland home.

The design features of the woods ensure that grassland and riparian habitats get a chance to flourish. As the canopy begins to close, pruning improves the trees and allows an understorey for plants and animals to inhabit. Sustainable forest management ensures trees thrive and are harvested at appropriate times. By using wood from these harvests in wooden products, carbon is held beyond the tree’s lifespan.

The Woodland Carbon Code

The Cwm Fagor site was the first site in Wales to receive accreditation from the Woodland Carbon Code, the quality assurance standard for woodland carbon projects in the UK. The Code is recognised internationally for promoting exacting standards in forest sustainability and carbon management.

"It’s particularly pleasing that this woodland will be contributing towards several targets to address climate change. The scheme is a demonstration that we recognise the emissions from Thorlux Lighting and the FW Thorpe Lighting Group and will also help the Welsh Government’s target to increase the area of woodland."

Michael Allcock, Chairman, FW Thorpe Plc

2009

First planting

2010

Photography visit

2015

Lightronics visit

2019

10 year visit

2021

Michael Allcock's first tree - 12 years old

2022