Sustainability is at the root of growth in Scotland’s forestry sector

Forestry in Scotland is a story of balance – between the economic benefits of commercial timber production and the critical need to protect biodiversity and the natural environment. 

With forests covering nearly 19% of Scotland’s land area and plans to expand this further, it’s clear forestry is central to Scotland’s future. 

However, we must find that balance –by adopting strategies that not only ensure future commercial timber production but also safeguard Scotland’s precious natural habitats and biodiversity.

The importance of commercial timber production
SCOTLAND’S forestry sector is crucial to the rural economy, contributing over £1.1 billion annually and supporting more than 34,000 jobs. At the heart of this success is commercial timber production, which supplies essential materials for industries like construction, agriculture (predominantly fencing), logistics (pallets) and packaging.

Timber is a renewable resource that has become increasingly attractive in the global push for sustainable alternatives to materials like concrete and steel. As a result, the global demand for timber is increasing very rapidly – yet the UK is the world’s second-largest net importer after China; a shocking 81% of the wood products we use are imported. 

With global demand soaring, the UK must increase timber security – which means planting more trees for timber.

The majority of Scotland’s commercial timber comes from conifer species such as Sitka spruce – fast-growing trees suited to Scotland’s climate, making them a reliable choice for large-scale timber production. 

However, expanding commercial woodlands must be done thoughtfully, avoiding sensitive habitats and carbon-rich soils to ensure forestry’s economic benefits do not come at the expense of Scotland’s climate and wildlife.

Avoiding sensitive habitats and carbon-rich soils
AS we increase forest cover, it’s crucial to ensure commercial tree planting doesn’t occur on land that is ecologically significant or plays a key role in carbon storage.

Scotland’s peatlands, for example, are some of the most effective carbon sinks in the world. Planting trees in these areas can disrupt their ability to store carbon, potentially releasing more greenhouse gases than the trees would absorb over their lifetimes.

Scottish Woodlands Ltd is well aware of these issues as we were the first large forestry business to employ a peatland project manager when Erin Stoll took up her post in January. Again, it’s all about getting the balance right.

Similarly, sensitive habitats such as wetlands, heathlands, and areas rich in biodiversity must be avoided.

In addition to our professional diligence, the industry has controls in place to ensure this doesn’t happen – via the UK Forestry Standard (developed in conjunction with environmental organisations) and overview of the approvals process by Scottish Forestry, the regulatory authority.

By respecting these boundaries, Scotland can ensure forestry expansion contributes positively to its economy and environment.

Broadleaf woodlands: A partner, not a competitor
WHILE commercial species dominate Scotland’s timber production, other trees play an equally vital role. Trees like Scots pine, oak, and birch form the backbone of Scotland’s ecological heritage, Broadleaf woodlands are not a replacement for commercial forests, but they complement them. 

Mixed planting schemes that integrate broadleaf species alongside commercial ones can create woodlands that are both productive and biodiverse, providing habitats for iconic species such as red squirrels and capercaillies.

For example, incorporating buffer zones of broadleaf trees around commercial plantations can help support biodiversity while also serving practical purposes like protecting watercourses and reducing soil erosion.

The economic value of sustainable planting
SUSTAINABLE forestry shouldn’t mean reducing productivity. In fact, incorporating sustainable practices can enhance long-term returns. By planting the right trees in the right places, Scotland can ensure a steady supply of high-quality timber and protect natural resources.

Diversifying species within commercial plantations also reduces risks. The single-species forests of the 1970s and 80s have given way to mixed-species woodlands with greater long-term resilience to diseases and pests – safeguarding both their economic and environmental value.

Balancing biodiversity with commercial goals
COMMERCIAL forestry and biodiversity are often seen as conflicting priorities, but they don’t have to be. Scotland’s forestry strategy must embrace a multi-purpose approach that recognises the value of both. For example:

Agroforestry: Integrating trees with agricultural practices can boost productivity while providing timber, alternative crops and habitats for wildlife;

Continuous Cover Forestry: This method harvests trees selectively, maintaining forest cover and preserving habitats. In Scotland, application is limited due to exposure and soils, but can be achieved in sheltered areas;

Habitat Corridors: Creating networks of broadleaf woodland within or adjacent to commercial plantations allows species to move freely, supporting biodiversity while maintaining timber output.

A roadmap for the future
SCOTLAND is at a crossroads in its forestry journey. With a strong focus on expanding tree cover, we must prioritise the right kinds of planting in the right places. The Scottish Government’s Forestry Strategy 2019–2029 outlines clear goals to increase forest area and ensure that forestry contributes to net-zero targets while enhancing biodiversity and supporting rural communities.

It is important that rural communities are included at an early stage in conversations about creating new forests. The recent launch of the Engagement with Local People and Communities, a good practice guide, involving the industry body Confor, and several community groups, represents a major step forward.

It is essential that trust in the process is developed, and that misinformation surrounding projects and misunderstanding of the sector is addressed.

Why it matters
SCOTLAND’S forests are more than just trees – they’re vital for the economy, a solution to the climate crisis, a haven for wildlife and provide beautiful places for public recreation.

By focusing on sustainable commercial forestry that respects ecosystems and incorporates a range of different tree species, we can ensure our forests deliver wide-ranging benefits for generations to come. It’s all about getting that balance right. 
 

www.scottishwoodlands.co.uk