Forestry contributes £1,100 million to the Scottish economy each year and supports 34,140 jobs.
An independent study, commissioned by Scottish Forestry, found that the industry directly employs 10,380 people, with a further 5,630 working across wood processing and forest activities, and 18,130 in forestry-related tourism. This represents a 30% increase since 2015.
The findings underline the growing importance of Scotland’s natural economy and demonstrates how forestry is supporting many businesses, the rural economy, and communities.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“Scotland’s forests and woodlands support a growing number of jobs, in rural and island communities, and make an increasingly important contribution to Scotland’s economy.
“The SNP Government is committed to expanding our forests and woodlands and ensuring they continue to provide multiple benefits.
“Scottish Forestry is working to maximise future woodland creation, with nearly 75% of all the new woodlands in the UK planted in Scotland last year - the highest level of woodland creation for 34 years.”
Scottish Forestry’s Head of Economics Pat Snowdon added:
“Forestry is often called a ‘hidden industry’ because there are so many small businesses placed in remote areas working throughout the sector. This comprehensive economic study covers a multitude of forestry activities and their important contribution towards boosting the economy of Scotland.
“The findings provide a snapshot of the different ways forestry generates income and employment across Scotland.”
Chief Executive of forestry and wood trade body Confor Stuart Goodall commented:
"This increasingly important industry has experienced strong growth. To have increased levels of employment by 30% and annual economic impact by more than 15% is remarkable in the face of unprecedented economic challenges and is testament to the resilience and ingenuity of people working in the sector, hundreds of millions of pounds of investment by businesses, and growing demand for wood as a low carbon material."
The independent study on the Economic Impact of Forestry in Scotland was completed by Frontline, Stantec and Evolving Forests on behalf of Scottish Forestry:
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