Carbon offsetting code of practice consultation

Climate change and carbon offsetting is high on the agenda at the Forestry Commission and they are inviting your input on draft Code of Good Practice for Forest Carbon Projects.

A draft code has been published today, and comments are being invited via a national consultation being held between now and September.

"'Forest carbon projects' typically involve planting new areas of forest and woodland to help counteract the greenhouse gas emissions caused by burning fossil fuels such as oil, coal and gas.

"One of the main greenhouse gases that are causing global warming and climate change is carbon dioxide (CO2). As trees grow they capture CO2 from the atmosphere and turn the carbon into wood and organic matter, whilst also releasing oxygen back into the atmosphere."

The Forestry Commission and UK forestry sector, wants to develop a Code of Good Practice in response to the growing interest in carbon conscious projects.

Woodland brings great benefits to the environment in providing the right ecology for wildlife and insects and now there is a huge emphasis on using woodland planting and management as a carbon control system.

By drawing on the valuable information provided during the consultation period - which runs until the 14th September 2009 - it is hoped that a uniform standard can be produced in order to create confidence for public and business, who are currently confused by what constitutes a good scheme under 'carbon offsetting' claims.

Director-General of the Forestry Commission, Tim Rollinson said: "Forests and woodlands have a hugely important role to play in the fight against climate change, because trees are one of nature's most efficient carbon-capture mechanisms. We want to see this capacity harnessed through increased woodland planting by encouraging greater investment in forestry projects that contribute to a low-carbon economy."

View the Good code of practice draft proposal.

View the Good code of practice consultation document.

For the full Forestry Commission article - Have your say on code for tree planting schemes to capture carbon.