Future Woodlands Scotland has welcomed the announcement by Scottish Forestry that the rules around the Woodland Carbon Code are being strengthened.  

The announcement comes following a rapid increase in the carbon market in Scotland in recent years.  

Tim Hall, our chair, said: “Future Woodlands Scotland has worked alongside Scottish Forestry over several years in our mission to help make it easier for Scottish farmers and land managers to plant new native woodland and restore ‘ghost woodlands’ – degraded native woodlands of high ecological value, as part of our Future Woodlands Fund.  

“Reducing many of the barriers”

“Our Future Woodlands Fund scheme reduces many of the barriers that farmers and land managers face when it comes to native woodland establishment by providing free advice and financial incentives.  

And with four options available, there’s an option to suit most people.  
Tim added: “Our carbon ownership options – validated by Woodland Carbon Code – are a great option for many land managers, as it allows them to make choices about how they manage their carbon in a developing market and changing regulatory environment.”

“We are well on our way to reaching our target of helping land managers plant up to 1million trees, with the potential to lock up 235,000 tonnes of CO2 by 2080. I’d urge anyone thinking of planting a woodland of between 3ha and 100ha to apply today.”  

“The changes should lead to more diverse forest creation”

He added: “I think the upcoming changes to the Woodland Carbon Code are very positive and should lead to better quality and more diverse forest creation schemes overall.” 

The new measures will come into effect on 1 October, 2022. Future Woodlands Scotland will communicate with all registered applicants on eligibility in ensuring the financial support is made available to as many land managers as possible.  

Check if you are eligible for our Future Woodlands Fund.