Forestry Commission
The UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) is the technical standard for sustainable forest management across the UK, and applies to all woodland, regardless of who owns or manages it.
The UK Forestry Standard 5th edition was published on 3 Oct 2023 following the completion of an extensive review process. Read further information on the review process, including consultation responses at Scottish Forestry UK Forestry Standard.
You can read the previous UK Forestry Standard 4th edition at The National Archives.
Purpose of the UKFS
The UKFS is based on sustainable forest management criteria agreed internationally and implemented in a way that is appropriate to the UK. It is intended to be used by professional foresters such as forest owners, managers and practitioners, regulators and advisers. It will also be of interest to other land managers and stakeholders.
The UKFS outlines the context for forestry in the UK. It defines the requirements and provides a basis for regulation and monitoring, including national and international reporting.
The UKFS covers important elements of sustainable forest management, including:
- biodiversity
- climate change
- historic environment
- landscape
- people
- soil
- water
Implementing the UKFS
The main bodies responsible for regulating, monitoring and implementing the UKFS are:
- The Forestry Commission (England)
- Scottish Forestry
- Natural Resources Wales
- Northern Ireland Forest Service
These bodies assess forestry proposals against the UKFS before giving approval, and carry out checks to ensure woodland owners and managers comply with forestry regulations. Arrangements for implementing and monitoring the standard will vary between the 4 countries.