Planting the right kind of trees

It is good to see Grown in Britain gathering momentum. This initiative was part of Westminster's response to the recommendations of the Independent Panel on Forestry, which was established in the wake of the public outcry and subsequent U-turn on plans to sell the public forest estate in England.

Led by the indefatigable Peter Bonfield of BRE, Grown in Britain has laudable objectives, including stimulating demand for domestic wood and wood products, encouraging more private sector growers to bring their woodlands into productive management, identifying funding opportunities for woodland creation and the development of a strong 'wood culture'.

There's been much talk about getting major retailers and builders to buy more British wood too. Agreed, but let's not overlook the fact that very significant volumes of domestic wood and wood products are already being purchased by the major merchants and retailers; consumption of over 3 million m3 of British-grown softwood per year and market share exceeding 40% is not insignificant.

We have been asked if there are any constraints on meeting increased demand for British grown timber. For softwood, there is considerable installed production capacity in sawmills which can be ramped up to meet demand, assuming wood supply is maintained. There is a compelling case for significantly increased new planting of commercial conifer crops. For the domestic hardwood sector, the challenge remains one of tree quality and continuity of supply.

Production from our forests is nearing a peak; the immediate challenge is to get more of the right type of trees planted. Government policy and grants still favour native broadleaves; it is time for a more balanced and enlightened view to be taken by government and its agencies in relation to policy and support mechanisms for new planting. Commercial conifer crops not only deliver economic benefits, they help to pay for the many non-market benefits demanded of forests and woodlands.

The time for action is now. If Grown in Britain can add its voice to that of industry and influence government thinking, to deliver a resurgence in commercial conifer forestry, that would be a job well done.

• TTJ Industry Updates are a forum for trade bodies to address key issues.