UK Forestry Standard Guidelines

The UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) is the reference standard for sustainable forest management in the UK. The UKFS, supported by its series of Guidelines, outlines the context for forestry in the UK, sets out the approach of the UK governments to sustainable forest management, defines standards and requirements, and provides a basis for regulation and monitoring.

Practising sustainable forestry means managing our forests in a way that meets our needs at present but that does not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs. They will rightly expect that their forests and woodlands offer at least the same benefits and opportunities as we enjoy today. At the heart of the UKFS approach is the importance of balancing the environmental, economic and social benefits of forests and the recognition that our forests serve a wide range of objectives. The Guidelines publications define sustainable forest management in the UK under a series of subject areas. The UKFS requirements have been set out in each and guidance given on how to achieve them.