Finlay Carson MSP for Galloway and West Dumfries and Convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Rural Affairs, Islands Committee, joined leading voices from across the forestry and wood processing sector at the “Forestry and Wood Processing at the Crossroads” event hosted by Brodies LLP in Edinburgh on 25 September.
Speaking on a political panel alongside Cabinet Secretary Mairi Gougeon MSP and other party representatives, Mr Carson addressed growing concerns that Scotland may be losing its competitive edge in forestry investment. He called for streamlined regulations, long-term funding certainty to restore investor confidence.
Mr Carson also emphasised the need to support innovation and expand the use of locally grown timber in construction, housing, and public procurement. “Scotland has the potential to lead the way in sustainable building using our own timber,” he said. “We must prioritise local supply chains and invest in technologies that add value and create jobs in rural communities.”
The event brought together industry leaders, investors, and policymakers to discuss how Scotland can secure a positive future for its £1.1 billion forestry sector, which supports over 34,000 jobs and plays a vital role in meeting net zero targets.