Today, the fight for a greener and more sustainable planet is bigger than ever. With people doing all that they can at home and in business, if we all do our part for the planet we can create a more sustainable future. If you want to make a financial investment that also benefits these causes, investing in forestry is a great option.
Did you know that in the UK there is an estimated 3.21 million hectares of forestry? You can invest in this land and create sustainable projects which make a positive environmental impact and are perfect for passing on your wealth to the next generation.
So, why should you consider forestry investment and how does it work? At Woodland Creations we’re the experts in this field, advising and managing woodland creation schemes across Scotland. We’ve put together this helpful blog on everything you need to know about forestry investments. Read on to find out more.
What is forestry investment?
Forestry investment is a way of protecting land through sustainable projects. Many businessmen and women decide to invest in forestry as it can be a good way of stabilizing their portfolios with an investment that will make a long-term profit – not to mention the protection it gives to woodland areas. You can cultivate and work on land you already own or find land to buy and go from there.
It’s important to find an experienced forestry management team that can help. If you’re looking for Scottish woodland for sale they can assess the site’s potential and decide whether it could make a good investment, or take a look at your own land. Next, it’s time to decide what to do with it such as planting new trees, looking into sustainable timber production and more.
Grants are also available via the Woodland Creations scheme throughout Scotland. The Scottish Government has set an ambitious target of planting 10,000 hectares per year, rising to 15,000 hectares per year by 2025, so if you’re starting a new investment you could be entitled to financial support. These grants will support woodlands that create economic, environmental and social benefits within Scotland.
Reasons for buying woodland
Over the last 10 years or so, the world has seen a dramatic decrease in the amount of woodland, forests and rainforests. Trees are vital for human life, giving us oxygen and protecting the biodiversity of this planet. However, it’s also important to recognise that timber is a resource that’s heavily relied upon in production and while we can’t stop using this material completely, there are ways to make the process more sustainable which is where forestry investment comes in.
Here are some of the top reasons for buying and investing in woodland.
Helping to fund greener production
Timber is one of the most used materials in the UK and elsewhere. Where the problems come in is when trees are cut down for timber production and not replaced, therefore we end up using more trees at a faster rate then they’re being replaced. Woodland investments are a great way of increasing the production of sustainable wood products and striking the right balance between restoring the land and providing high-quality timber. When you invest in forestry you can monitor this production and help pave the way for greater sustainability.
Growing demand for sustainable timber
There is also a growing demand for sustainable timber. All kinds of businesses require timber such as carpentry and construction, but more and more people are seeking sustainable avenues to get their materials. Creating your own forestry can help fill this gap in the market and make you a nice little profit too.
Supporting local businesses
Forestry investment is a great way of supporting local businesses and the economy. If you plan on cultivating your forest for timber production, do this to support local businesses and boost the local economy.
At Woodland Creations, we can help you find the right avenue for your forestry investment. Creating new woodland offers a range of environmental and social benefits including habitat restoration and improvement, protecting soil and water, providing community benefits through public access, enhancing urban fringes, and improving landscapes. Get in touch with us today and find out how we can help.
Carbon storage
Forests can also be used as part of carbon storage schemes. Many of us are aware of the growing threat of climate change, and woodland creation is one of the most effective ways to tackle this issue head-on. Carbon dioxide, also known as C02, is the most common greenhouse gas which contributes to global warming. However, the amounts of CO2 removed from the atmosphere by the growing trees are measurable and are defined as Woodland Carbon Units (WCUs) which make a positive impact on the environment.
The average person’s annual carbon footprint in the UK is around 7 tonnes of CO2, but just one hectare of new native woodland can lock up 6 to 8 tonnes of CO2 per year over the first 50 years of growth meaning a new woodland is the ideal way to lock up our carbon.
Tax benefits
As well as the environmental benefits of these projects, you can also receive tax-related benefits from your forestry. There are many tax advantages for commercial forestry owners. Investing in woodland creation can be an efficient way to manage your taxation both now and in the future. For your contribution to sustainable forestry, the government has stated that timber sales from commercially managed woodlands are exempt from both income and corporation tax. You can also access inheritance tax benefits when you own a forest for more than two years as well as capital gains.
How do you know which land is best for investment?
If you’re interested in Scottish woodland for sale but don’t know what you should be looking for or whether your land is the right kind of plot, hiring a professional forestry team is key. They can assist with the right type of land in terms of space, location and quality so your development has the best chance of success. Next, ecological surveys are often conducted to assess the land and whether it’s suitable for cultivation. If it is you then need a good development plan to get things going and help with planning permission and overall management.
Woodland Creations: Invest in forest land for sale
At Woodland Creations, we specialise in finding the best forestry investments across Scotland. Based in Perth, we’ve got all the knowledge and expertise you need to create a bespoke woodland area if you’re looking for land to buy. Whether you’re already in possession of a plot of land or are looking for your next investment, we’ve got a comprehensive woodland creation service to suit your needs.
Our team will help you discover the best Scottish woodland for sale, working closely alongside you for long-term management and sustainable gains. Our services include ecological surveys and reports, ongoing management solutions and expert advice and guidance for owners.
Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can help you today.