Denmark has launched its most ambitious forestation initiative in history, opening applications for a major subsidy scheme aimed at transforming agricultural land into forest. The program is part of a long-term plan to plant 250,000 hectares of new forest to address climate goals.
A Historic Green Investment Unveiled
As of September 8, 2025, Danish landowners can now apply for subsidies under a new government scheme designed to support large-scale forest planting across the country. The program, born out of the Green Tripartite Agreement (Grøn Trepart), represents the largest public investment for afforestation in Denmark’s history, with a total budget of 20 billion kroner through 2045.
The aim of the program is to create 250,000 hectares of new forests, with a significant portion dedicated to untouched forest areas that will be left to develop naturally without human interference. Of that total, 100,000 hectares are earmarked for untouched forest, promoting biodiversity and providing more space for endangered species.
New Opportunities for Landowners
The subsidy program is available to both private and public landowners, including municipalities, individuals, community organizations, and foundations. Any landowner with at least one hectare of farmland can apply for support to convert the land into forest. The scheme is open immediately, with a 2025 application deadline set for October 31.
There is an exception for land located in areas designated as having particularly high nitrogen mitigation needs. In these zones, landowners can apply year-round. Starting in 2026, the application window for the rest of the country will be opened twice annually.
Incentives for Natural Forests
The financial incentives are structured to encourage the planting of both managed and untouched forests across Denmark. The standard subsidy rate is 75,500 kroner per hectare. For landowners who choose to establish untouched forest, an additional 15,000 kroner per hectare is available, boosting both the financial appeal and environmental value of participation.
The initiative’s goal is to support the creation of 230,000 hectares of new private forest, of which 80,000 hectares must be untouched. The remaining 20,000 hectares of untouched forest will be established as state-owned forest, rounding out the targeted 100,000 hectares of preserved natural areas.
Supporting Climate Goals and Community Well-Being
Forestation is a central pillar in Denmark’s strategy to transform the use of 10 percent of its land to meet national climate goals. Increasing forest area helps absorb carbon dioxide, regulates ecosystems, protects water sources, and boosts biodiversity. Moreover, forests serve social and recreational purposes, offering residents greater access to nature, educational opportunities for children, and healthier ecosystems for wildlife.
As the annual budget for the subsidy scheme reaches 737.5 million kroner in 2025, the amount will grow to 1 billion kroner per year after 2030, signaling a long-term policy commitment to nature-based climate solutions.
Encouraging a National Movement
The Danish government is encouraging widespread involvement in the program and calling on landowners, civic groups, and local authorities to collaborate in turning farmland into forested landscapes. The goal is not only to improve the ecological health of the country but also to bring forests closer to people’s homes, making daily interaction with nature a stronger part of community life.
The program taps into a growing national and global awareness of the importance of afforestation in combating the effects of climate change and promoting high-value conservation areas. Denmark’s model also aligns with broader European Union goals on rewilding and natural habitat restoration.
Key Numbers on the Subsidy Program
– 20 billion DKK has been allocated for the afforestation subsidy program through 2045.
– 230,000 hectares is the target for new private forest, with 80,000 hectares designated as untouched.
How to Apply
Eligible landowners can submit applications via the official national afforestation portal. Full details, including site eligibility and funding conditions, are available at https://mars.sgav.dk/.
The program represents a significant step forward for Denmark’s climate and environmental ambitions, offering a blueprint for green action that tightly integrates public policy, private participation, and environmental preservation. With the world watching how nations respond to accelerating climate threats, Denmark’s forestation program sets a bold example of national-scale ecological transformation.
