Administrative Burdens as Barriers to Afforestation: A Sludge Audit of Ireland’s Afforestation Scheme

• DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/8xg2e_v1
• Publication Date: 2025-04-16T21:55:30Z
• Authors: Leonhard Lades; Patricia Lentz; Cara Augustenborg
• Keywords: Afforestation

Many governments offer financial incentives to encourage landowners plant trees. However, administrative burdens associated with these afforestation schemes can hinder grant uptake. This paper builds on existing research and “sludge,” which addresses challenges, by conducting a sludge audit of Ireland’s Afforestation Scheme. We create journey map that outlines the typical steps involved in securing grants, assess level type at each step this process, conduct thematic qualitative analysis stakeholder interviews. The reveals unpredictable timelines application process serve as significant barrier efforts. Additionally, high uncertainty surrounding outcomes complicates decision-making for landowners, making it challenging determine whether pursuing scheme is worthwhile. To address we recommend streamlining information requirements, establishing clear timelines, enhancing communication reduce friction facilitate afforestation.