Tree planting rates must increase

The Committee on Climate Change produces an annual report assessing the Scottish government's actions on tackling the greenhouse gas emissions which lead to climate change.

Emissions in 2014, the latest full year available, were almost 46 per cent lower than 1990 levels, the report found.

The committee praised the Scottish Government for generating more electricity from renewables, but said "strong, credible policies" were needed in the transport and agriculture sectors, the next biggest emitters after power stations.

Stuart Goodall, Chief Executive of Confor: promoting forestry and wood, highlighted a very simple message in the report for the forestry sector: 'Tree planting rates need to increase to achieve desired emissions reductions.'

Mr Goodall said: "If we can hit the target suggested - 16,000 hectares of new planting by 2030 - we will not only make a major impact on climate change reductions, but also create a long-term timber supply which will protect and create rural jobs and stimulate further growth and investment. In addition, modern, multi-purpose forestry provides great habitats for wildlife and excellent opportunities for recreation. It really can tick all the boxes."

He added: "We are very encouraged by the enthusiastic approach of Cabinet Secretary Fergus Ewing, who has consistently stressed the need to raise the level of tree planting since he came into post. He has taken a very practical approach and we are already starting to see results. Confor will work closely with Mr Ewing and all other partners to ensure Scotland derives the greatest possible economic, environmental and social benefits from new and enhanced tree planting."

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Tree planting rates must increase