Annex
DIVERSIFICATION
Landowners and rural areas with woodlands are likely to be better placed to generate income from recreation, tourism, country sports and environmental management, especially by providing settings for future development.
As an extensive land use and thus a major alternative option for farmers who wish to leave or downscale their agricultural activity.
AID FARM BUSINESSES/RENEWABLE ENERGY
Existing farm woodlands can complement the livestock business providing a source of shelter, fencing material and seasonal work opportunities.
Increasing potential for Wood fuel to be used as renewable energy Source (eg in East England already three large scale power plants all capable of using woodchips as source of renewable energy, while smaller scale heating plants also being piloted).
SOCIAL BENEFITS
Woodlands can contribute to quality of life by providing robust opportunities for access, recreation, healthy exercise, education.
Woodlands can also contribute to social inclusion via woodland community development projects.
ENHANCING THE ENVIRONMENT
Woodlands can contribute to biodiversity and help to sustain the landscape of the English countryside.
PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT
Well located woodlands can be used to protect water quality and soils. They can also be used as carbon sinks—reducing the impact of climate change.
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