In the new Public Opinion of Forestry Survey, 82% of the people interviewed said they agree or strongly agree that trees are good because they remove CO2 from the atmosphere and store it in the wood.
Additionally, 81% said they would like to see “a lot more trees planted” to help tackle climate change.
Over 90% of those interviewed also stated that there was at least one benefit for forestry worth supporting with public money. Providing places for wildlife and tackling climate change being the top choices.
Welcoming the findings, Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:
“It is really promising to see that the general public is connecting the message that trees are important in tackling climate change and reducing nature loss.
“The results also show a healthy response to people wanting to see more trees planted for climate change. This aligns with our goals to expand Scotland’s forests and woodlands in a sensitive way, getting the right tree in the right place and engaging with communities.”
The survey is carried out every two years by Forest Research and explores public attitudes to forestry and forestry-related issues.
Scotland’s forests and woodlands deliver significant benefits for Scotland, they generate over £1.1 billion each year and supports around 34,000 jobs. They are home to 172 priority species and are hugely important to improving the health and well-being of the population.
Brendan Callaghan, Scottish Forestry's Director of Operational Delivery added:
"I’m very pleased to see that the recent survey reveals significant public support for investing public funds in forestry across Scotland. This strong backing reflects a growing recognition of the vital role that well-managed, multi-purpose forestry plays in our society.
“This survey underlines the public’s understanding that investing in forestry is an investment in a greener, healthier, and more prosperous Scotland for current and future generations.”
Other key findings from the survey included:
- media coverage on forestry has increased significantly from the previous study with 62% of all surveyed recalling seeing, hearing or reading coverage
- “Tree planting” was the most commonly identified topic
- 75% agreed or strongly agreed that everyone should take action when visiting woodlands to help prevent the spread of damaging tree pests or diseases
- 90% of respondents have visited forests or woodlands in the last 12 months
- 77% of those that had visited woodlands felt their mental health had benefited
