ENVIRONMENTALISTS are warning that Scotland’s forests must be protected in order to achieve net zero.
A study by the Forest Research Agency found that a continuation of current foresting practices could have a potentially devastating impact.
It warns that CO2 emissions could rise greatly due to deforestation as Scotland’s trees naturally take away about 10% of the country’s gross greenhouse gases.
Environment Minister Màiri McAllan said: “We are facing serious challenges with a rapidly changing climate.
"Milder, wetter winters, warmer and drier summers, mixed with more frequent extreme weather events are expected in the future.
“With this change in climate we also need to ensure Scotland’s forests and woodlands are more resilient to the growing number of pests and diseases that we are now facing.
“There is a climate emergency upon us right now and keeping the status quo is simply not an option. It is essential that we make sure our forests are fit for the future.”
Last year, the Scottish Government announced its plan to reach zero emissions by 2045.
As part of this, itlaunched the Social Housing Net Zero Heat Fund this year which made £200 million available over the next five years to support landlords across Scotland in installing zero-emissions heating systems and energy-efficiency measures.
The free bus pass scheme for under-22s was also launched this year in order to encourage young people to use public transport and help lower emissions.
This week’s report from the UK Forestry Standard Practice Guide that was published by the Forest Research Agency urges several changes.
The report sets new guidelines for foresters and highlights the importance of sustainability.
Changes that the Forest Research Agency is pushing for include an increase of tree species and diversity, the creation of mixed woodlands and the use of natural regeneration, as well as conscious design plans and methods of selecting trees.
It also warns that in tackling these issues, foresters must be careful not to create or aggravate additional issues in Scotland’s woodlands.
The information comes as part of National Plant Health Week which began on May 9 and will run until May 15.
The week aims to raise awareness of the importance of plant and tree health.
