Trees to timber: how landowners can benefit from commercial forestry
Discover the financial and environmental benefits of home-grown timber for woodland owners.
Timber is a renewable resource vital to sustainable living and the UK’s economy. From construction and furniture to packaging and shipbuilding, the country has a vibrant and robust industry ready to take advantage of home-grown timber.
However, the UK imports 73% of its timber and due to global demand, supply chains are under pressure. Now is a great time to increase our domestic timber production.
Planting and managing woodlands for timber production can:
- help secure our home-grown supply of timber
- capture carbon as trees grow and store it long term in wood products
- reduce reliance on more carbon-intensive materials
- improve biodiversity
- generate income
Read our blog Celebrating the timber in our lives.
Watch our video Trees to timber: commercial forestry in the UK.
Benefits of timber production
From carbon capture to sustainable income, there is a lot to gain from commercial forestry. Plus, you’ll be helping to secure the UK’s supply of home-grown timber.
Managing your woodland responsibly
Sustainable timber production begins with good woodland management. Read our regulatory guidance to get started.
Get the most from your woodland
Unlock the benefits of timber production by choosing the right species and management techniques for your woodland.
Tree planting: right tree, right place, right reasons (infographic)
Innovations in the sector
The commercial forestry industry is constantly evolving to adapt to the market, climate change, pests and diseases. Find out how the sector is strengthening the supply chain and creating more economic opportunities.
Woods into Management Forestry Innovation Funds: case studies
How other landowners are creating woodland for timber
Get practical insight and tips from other landowners who are using timber production to boost wildlife, diversify income and build climate resilience.
Getting started
Whether you’re looking to create a new woodland or manage an existing woodland for timber production, get started by exploring our woodland grants and advice.
Further resources on timber
Read more about timber production and the future of timber in construction.