For decades there has been failure of policy to increase the proportion of woodland under active management. Woodland creation has been the too-narrow focus of policy in recent years, with existing woodlands remaining a huge, missed opportunity. We need all types of woodland, recognising that some are better for biodiversity, some for producing essential timber and wood products, and others for recreation and wellbeing.
The Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) and the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) – both SocEnv Licensed Members – issued this position paper in August 2023. In the paper they call for decision-makers to take urgent action, in order to bring more existing woodlands into sustainable management.
Additional note: SocEnv are collaborating with the ICF and CIEEM on policy priorities, notably addressing the cross-sector skills challenge, as part of the collaborative Environmental Policy Forum.
