Tom, Keith and Tommy from our harvesting team attended the Northern Forestry Conference today at the Discovery Museum in Newcastle.
The conference explores the opportunities associated with growing the forestry and timber processing industries across the north of England and brings together leaders, innovators and changemakers from across the forestry and timber sectors. Set in the heart of Newcastle, this year’s event explored how the north of England can lead the way in delivering economic growth, environmental resilience, and social value.
Forests and woodlands are more than just landscapes — they are engines of opportunity
- Supporting thousands of jobs and generate hundreds of millions in GVA
- Providing recreation and cultural value through iconic sites like Kielder, Grizedale, and Dalby
- Absorbing pollution, mitigate flooding, and support biodiversity
- Locking up carbon for generations through sustainable timber products
- Enabling innovation in low-carbon materials, including packaging, clothing fibres, and even aviation fuel
The sector faces a complex mix of challenges — from land use competition and labour shortages to climate change, disease, and the need to decarbonise operations. The conference aimed to explore how we can reinvigorate the social licence for productive forestry, build resilience through collaboration and innovation, and create the right regional environment for forestry to thrive.
An exceptional line-up of high profile speakers attended to identify how northern forests can overcome challenges and meet regional goals across Net Zero, the environment, health, jobs, skills, recreation, tourism, investment and infrastructure.