Why are we expanding Scotland’s woodlands?

This is why the Scottish Government is committed to increasing woodland cover, as set out in its Climate Change Plan. This will see the proportion of land under woodland cover rise across Scotland from 19% to 21% by 2032.

Climate change (Scottish Government website)

To help realise this ambition, annual targets for woodland creation are set out in the Programme for Government, which Scottish Forestry is responsible for supporting.

Programme for Government 2025 to 2026 (Scottish Government website)

We provide funding, advice and support to landowners and communities, whilst also guiding Scottish Ministers on national forestry policy.

Trees are one of our most powerful allies in reaching Net Zero and tackling climate change, boosting biodiversity and supporting a more balanced ecosystem.

• Scotland’s forests absorb 7.5 million tonnes of CO₂ each year – equal to about 14% of Scotland’s total emissions 
• our forests provide sustainable timber, a low-carbon alternative for construction 
• woodlands are home to 172 priority species, including:
  • pine marten
  • black grouse
  • the Scottish crossbill
• trees also:
  • connect habitats
  • create wildlife corridors
  • provide shade that keeps rivers cool for species like wild salmon 
• growing trees enrich soil with nutrients and reduce erosion as roots help hold soil together making our land more:
  • healthier
  • productive
  • resilient
• trees improve air quality and act like natural filters to keep your land’s water clean 
• our woodlands help with flood management by slowing down rainfall run-off 
• expanding forests ensures a steady supply of timber and wood products, supporting Scotland’s growing bioeconomy and helping to meet the growing global demand for green fibre

Find out more about the social and environmental benefits of forests in Great Britain

We need a range of well managed woodland types across Scotland if we are to tackle the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.

Encouraging forests and woodlands with varying features and objectives is critical, including:

• species composition
• means of establishment and management 

This enables the greatest range of public benefits and ecosystem services to be delivered.

As well as potential to generate new jobs and diversify local economies by providing employment in forestry to recreation and tourism. 

Woodlands also provide local communities with space for recreation, helping people connect with nature. 

• research has shown that trees benefit people’s physical and mental health - expanding forests near communities enhances quality of life

Woods for health 

• forests also provide outdoor learning environments for children and opportunities for skills development in land management and conservation

Woods for learning 

• woodlands are part of Scotland’s heritage and identity - expansion helps preserve this legacy for future generations