Island of Woods: How Ireland Lost its Forests and How to Get them Back

The forestry in Ireland has increased tenfold due to the planting of imported conifer species, but there has been a backlash from farmers, local communities, environmentalists, and EU regulators. Up to one-third of new plantations are failed forests that should never have been planted. Island of Woods traces the history of Irish forests over the last 10,000 years and examines the state of Irish forestry today, sketching a way forward for a different type of forestry that balances commercial, environmental, and social goals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 225 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2023
Publisher: New Island Books

Forestry in Ireland has been a highly contentious issue over the past century. The country's forest area has experienced a significant expansion, primarily due to the widespread planting of imported conifer species. The government's policy is to plant more trees to meet the demands of the industry and address climate change, which are considered urgent priorities. However, this initiative has faced strong opposition from farmers, local communities, environmentalists, and EU regulators. The rate of tree planting has drastically declined, and up to one-third of the new plantations in Ireland are considered failed forests that should never have been planted in the first place.

To understand how we arrived at this peculiar situation, Island of Woods takes a deep dive into the history of Irish forests over the past 10,000 years. It explores the factors that led to the loss of a significant portion of Ireland's forest cover in the past and the subsequent surge in tree-planting efforts in recent decades. The book examines the current state of Irish forestry and offers a forward-looking vision that aims to balance commercial, environmental, and social goals. It proposes a different type of forestry that can transform the Irish landscape and re-establish a genuine tree culture in the country.

This engaging examination of Irish woodlands connects historical events to present-day concerns and controversies, shedding light on crucial themes that continue to shape the Irish landscape. It raises important questions about the role of forestry in sustainable development, the impact of tree planting on biodiversity, and the balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. By exploring these topics, Island of Woods provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of Irish forestry and offers a roadmap for a more sustainable and inclusive future.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 137 x 215 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848408791