Summary
This narrative review examines evidence-based approaches to expanding tree cover and woodland in line with net-zero targets, arguing that future forests must move beyond even-aged monocultures towards genetically diverse, mixed, and irregular forest configurations. The authors use UK case studies to illustrate how such forests can deliver sustainable environmental, economic, and health benefits through improved carbon sequestration, water cycle regulation, and enhanced biodiversity, whilst identifying policy and implementation challenges.
UK applicability
The paper explicitly uses UK forestry policy and conditions to illustrate its arguments, making findings directly applicable to UK woodland expansion targets and forest management planning. The discussion of government initiatives and policy issues is grounded in the UK context, though the authors note that similar challenges apply globally.
Key measures
Carbon storage capacity, biodiversity metrics, ecosystem service provision (water cycle regulation, timber production), forest resilience to climate and pest pressures
Outcomes reported
The paper examines forest structure, composition, and planning approaches to achieve timber production alongside climate change mitigation and ecosystem service provision. It compares mixed and irregular forests with even-aged monocultures in terms of biodiversity, carbon storage, water cycle regulation, and resilience to biotic and abiotic challenges.
Topic tags
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