How will forestry's contribution to the low carbon economy change the UK landscape?

摘要

The reforestation which occurred during the 60s, 70s and 80s represented the UK's largest land-use change of recent times, reversing a long established trend of deforestation and creating c.1.5 million ha of woodland. The planting included extensive use of non-native species and created a timber resource and significant mechanism for CO_2 uptake from the atmosphere. In the last 30 years woodland creation has substantially slower, focused in the lowlands and in peri-urban areas. The Read Report is a comprehensive analysis of the potential contribution of UK forests to mitigation of and adaptation to climate change. It presents an evidence-based and compelling case for a new phase of woodland creation, establishment of energy crops, proactive adaptation of existing woodlands, changes in forest management and protection of UK woodlands and trees from increased threats from pests and pathogens. Such policies would have a significant impact on the UK landscape. Research is required to ensure that the changes to the forest and rural landscape which occur in response to climate change are effective in conserving biodiversity and in delivering the full range of public benefits, including abatement of greenhouse gas emissions.