How and where should Scotland restore and expand the woodlands we need for biodiversity?

How and where should Scotland restore and expand the woodlands we need for biodiversity?

Summary: Scotland’s biodiversity has declined significantly over recent decades, yet the role of nature within sustainable manages landscapes can be contentious. There are trade-offs between nature and other land uses. For the health of our landscapes and the well-being of society we need to find ways to balance how we use our land. We will hear perspectives and reflections from leaders in the sector. We envisage a nuanced and rich dialogue and constructive conversations about the way native woodlands and forest plantations can and should contribute to biodiversity and sustainable land use in Scotland.

Speakers:

• Dr Andrew Weatherall, Principal Policy Officer Woodlands and Forestry at RSPB whose talk will focus on how we can balance timber producing plantations with native woodlands for nature’s recovery.
• James Rainey, senior ecologist at Trees for Life, whose talk will focus on wild trees: why they're important and why/how to prioritise them.

Respondents:

• Lucy Jenner, head of Natural Capital Scotland at Savills & PhD student
• Dr Helen McKay OBE, Chief Forester for Scotland
• David Bruce, Forest and Peatland Manager at the University of Edinburgh
• Prof Mat Williams, Scottish Government Chief Scientific Adviser for Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture