Gardiner launches forestry review
Low timber prices, the effects of climate change, and a shortage of skilled workers must not prevent England's trees, woods and forests from creating benefits for everyone, Forestry Minister Barry Gardiner said today.
Mr Gardiner, launching a consultation on the review of the England Forestry Strategy, said he wanted trees, woods and forests to make an increasingly important contribution to sustainable development over the next decade.
"I want us to get more from our trees, woods and forests." he said.
"Let me give a couple of examples. First, the issue of access. More than half the people in this country live within a three miles of a larger woodland, and we have opened up an area the three times the size of Birmingham for people to visit and enjoy. Now we have to ask what more do people want from our forests?"
"Second, climate change. We know that trees and woodland can play many different roles in tackling climate change. What should our priorities be in England? In particular, should we try to unlock the potential of unmanaged woodland to supply wood fuel, a renewable energy source? How can it be done?"
"I encourage everyone who is interested in the future of woodlands to share their views on these and others questions to ensure that we are making the most of this important resource," he said.
The consultation identifies national priorities and policies over the next 5 - 10 years to which England's trees, woods and forests can make a particularly significant contribution.
The Government has named four objectives for its forestry policy:
* To safeguard England's resource of trees, woods and forests for future generations;
* To protect the environmental resources of water, soil and air, and to protect and enhance biodiversity and landscapes, both woodland and non-woodland, and cultural values;
* To ensure that woodlands and trees enhance the quality of life for those living in, working in, or visiting England;
* To encourage the development of new or improved markets for sustainable woodland products and services where this will deliver identifiable public benefits, nationally or locally.
The new Strategy, which will follow the consultation, will be supported by a joint Forestry Commission - Natural England action plan for national delivery, and will give shape and direction to local delivery through the wide range of partners engaged in the Regional Forestry Frameworks.
