By
Steve Williams
Senior Media Manager, Scottish Forestry
Forestry experts have drawn up a list of key productive tree species which will ensure our forests and woodlands cope with climate change and continue to provide multiple economic, environmental and social benefits in the future.
A new list of 28 tree species for foresters to grow in the future marks a major step forward in helping our woodlands and forests adapt to the growing threats of climate change.
The list has been developed through extensive collaboration between Scottish Forestry, Forest Research, and a wide range of partners from across the forestry, conservation, and rural sectors.
The trees chosen highlights a diverse mix of species that have been carefully assessed against strict scientific criteria to ensure they can withstand changing conditions while continuing to deliver economic, environmental, and community benefits.
Announcing during Scotland's Climate Week, Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon welcomed the publication of the list, saying:
“We’ve seen the very stark global effects of climate change with hotter and drier summers and warmer wetter winters. We must future-proof our forests for the future to ensure that they thrive and continue to provide multiple benefits.
“This new list isn’t just about timber production – which in itself is vital - it’s about ensuring our woodlands can survive in a future climate. Our woodlands also need to support biodiversity, lock up carbon, and provide the social and recreational and environmental benefits that communities value so highly.”
