Renewed focus on climate change for annual ‘Tree Oscars’

The prestigious Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards will this year see a renewed focus on the climate crisis after last year saw winners range from a couple who planted 14,000 trees on a rocky peninsula in the Western Isles to a primary school which moved 80% of learning outdoors during the pandemic.

Jean Nairn, executive director of Scotland’s Finest Woods, said: “Last year it was a delight to see a wide range of winners, from the forestry and woodland sectors to schools and inspiring individuals.

“This year will see the Climate Change Champion award return as the world looks towards a warming planet and the urgent need to take more action. The wonderful efforts across Scotland to use forests and woodlands to mitigate, adapt and educate everyone about the climate crisis will rightly be recognised.

“This encompasses the forestry and farming sectors as well as schools and communities – all of whom play their part in helping Scotland overcome the environmental challenges facing us all.”

Entrants may apply directly to this award or submit as an additional entry along with another award category.

The awards seek to champion work carried out across a range of sectors with applicants invited to highlight best practice of forest and woodland management across Scotland.

Jean added: “It is important that we continue to appreciate the work done across different sectors to improve our forests and woodlands, which have an incredibly important role to play.

"They allow us to grow timber for construction rather than having to import it, improve farming, enhance landscapes and make space for recreation. And the huge bonus is that it also allows biodiversity to increase and helps tackle climate change.”

With continued Scottish Government support for ambitious tree planting targets, the organisers are hoping for another exceptional set of winners this year.

Entries must be submitted by 11.59pm on Friday, March 31.

Full details of the award categories, criteria and entry forms can be found at www.sfwa.co.uk.