UK forestry explained: From Sitka spruce to smart data solutions

This article is based on our podcast episode released on 16th January 2025. [Listen to the full episode here]

When looking at forestry practices across different countries, the United Kingdom presents an interesting case of balancing traditional approaches with modern challenges. From certification systems to species selection, their approach offers valuable insights for forest managers everywhere.

For this article we've tapped our great colleague, Benjamin Aagaard on the shoulder to explain. Benjamin himself is a Forest and Landscape Engineer and knows a thing or two about how different countries approach their forest management.

"The UK way is a lot like the Danish way in many aspects," explains Benjamin. "They also clear-cut, and they also do continuous cover forestry. So I think we have a lot of similarities."

Before diving into the specifics, it's worth exploring how the history of UK forests has shaped their modern-day structure and species composition.

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Sitka spruce dominates UK forests

An interesting thing about the forests in the UK is how common a single tree species is: the Sitka spruce. This dominance is deeply rooted in history, particularly in Scotland, where reforestation efforts began after widespread deforestation.

"Over several centuries, Britain's forests were gradually depleted through various human activities - from agriculture and settlements to shipbuilding and fuel needs," explains Rasmus. 

"Scotland has since been working to restore its woodland coverage, and Sitka spruce proved to be an excellent choice for this reforestation due to its fast growth rate and natural adaptation to the Scottish climate."

The widespread use of Sitka reflects the practical need for fast-growing, climate-suitable species. However, the reliance on a single species also brings challenges, particularly when it comes to sustainability and forest health.

With their forest cover gradually increasing, the UK is focusing on how to manage them in the best possible way.

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UK's smart way to handle forest certificates

Certification systems are an essential part of documenting sustainable forestry.

In the UK, sustainable forest management is guided by the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS), a comprehensive framework that all forest owners and managers must follow. While this standard sets the direction, it's the UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS) that handles certification.

What makes the UK system clever is how they handle certification. While Danish forest owners can also have both FSC and PEFC certification, they need two separate certificates. In the UK, forest owners only need one certification - UKWAS - which is recognized by both FSC and PEFC.

"Having one certification instead of two makes everything simpler," Benjamin explains. "It's the same high standards, just less paperwork."

This combined certification system highlights how UK forestry works to simplify complex processes without compromising quality. The effort to create unified standards is mirrored in another important area of forest management: mapping.

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The UK forest mapping system

Forestry mapping systems can reveal a lot about how forests are managed.

Like Denmark, the UK uses a system of sections and subsections to map their forests. While these subsections are typically between 0.2 and 10 hectares, they can sometimes be larger.

"This detailed mapping makes sense for countries like Denmark and the UK, where forests are relatively small and diverse," Benjamin observes.

By contrast, Sweden uses a simpler system with larger sections and no subsections. This aligns with Sweden's more industrial approach to forestry, focusing on fewer species over larger areas.

Such mapping systems are not only about tracking forest areas—they also support broader forest management strategies, including health monitoring and disease control.

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A systematic approach to forest health monitoring

The UK stands out for its systematic approach to protecting forest health, particularly in their fight against diseases like Phytophthora ramorum that affects larch trees. Their solution combines modern technology with swift action.

"What I've read is that they fly over the country every year to look for these areas," Benjamin describes. "If they spot them, they send someone out and notify the owner that the trees must be felled immediately."

This battle against Phytophthora ramorum has revealed an unexpected threat to forest health: rhododendrons from neighboring gardens can spread the disease to forest trees.

This discovery has taught foresters the importance of keeping these ornamental plants well away from forests.

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Making forestry data available to everyone

The UK has made significant strides in providing open data for forestry. Via services, like WMS and WFS, users can access various map data and layers, including soil information and Ramsar areas.

However, while the UK has embraced open data, they have yet to match Denmark's system of annual aerial photography updates, which offer even greater detail.

By making data accessible, UK forestry supports transparency and collaboration, setting an example for other countries.

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Learning from the UK's Forestry Practices

The UK approach to forestry reflects both its unique history and its ability to adapt to modern challenges. Through innovative solutions in certification and health monitoring, the UK offers valuable insights for forest management practices worldwide.

As forest managers across Europe face the shared challenges of climate change, sustainability, and efficiency, the UK example demonstrates how alternative strategies can address these issues effectively.