Chris's Forester Column: March 2010

Consider: in the past three decades, glaciers in Europe, Africa and Alaska have receded at alarming rates, the Greenland icecap has begun to melt, the northern hemisphere's growing season has extended 11 days, world weather patterns have become unpredictable and oceans more acidic while millions of people have abandoned their traditional livings, driven off by floods, drought and rising sea levels. Man-made climate change isn't a conspiracy; its effects will radically change our children's and grandchildren's lives.  For us to do nothing about it would be foolhardy and irresponsible.

 And now the good news: Government incentives will make solar water heater installations an economic winner. The Renewable Heat Incentive coming into force next April will pay you around £400 per year. In addition you will make considerable savings on your annual fuel bill. Do investigate through www.swea.co.uk.

One of the Forest of Dean's major sustainable resources is timber. 75% of the Forest's working population travel out of the district. So does most of its timber. Here's a vision: a reformed Forest Enterprise seen primarily as a locally-managed asset, not a national business; an integrated timber industry using locally produced wood for furniture, structural timbers, joinery, woodcraft, firewood and charcoal production; a new college-based training centre for all levels and sectors of this industry. Result: huge carbon savings, major employment and reskilling opportunities. What's not to like?

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