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About the Conference                                                                    Book Now

Did you predict the public’s reaction in February last year to the Government's proposed change in woodland ownership in England? Do you have a clear idea of the international and domestic forces that will shape forestry and forestry businesses over the next decade? Do you know all about carbon trading and how forestry fits in? 

We’ve seen the industry's reaction to policy decisions, huge public concern over forest sell-offs, biosecurity challenges, changing planting demands, economic drivers that bring tough financial decisions, increased and often bureaucratic legislation, and a potential long-term skills shortage on the horizon. The list goes on.

But, with the challenges come opportunities – a recognition of the importance of trees and woodlands to our economy, landscape, health and well-being, from both government and the public. This means new markets and an increased demand for professional services.

We have to start thinking laterally, planning strategically, delivering diversely, learning globally and building our businesses innovatively to embrace the future demands of our society.

If you predicted the changes then come and tell us. If not then come and hear what some of the industry’s leading experts - from home and abroad - have to say. We want industry professionals, like you, to join us to discuss how we can interpret society’s demands on our trees and woodland into innovative ideas for today's businesses.

Programme Overview
Wednesday 16 May
Day One (10.45am - 5.00pm) will be devoted to the global and European context for forestry and trees in our society. We will look at:

• Forestry on the World Stage - Key challenges in global forest policy, how the Forestry Commission has influenced forestry policy overseas;
• Key challenges in the UK - Global economic prospects for forest and wood products, new research agendas in forest management;
• Trees, Economics, Sustainability and Best Value for Society - The perceptions and value of forests and greenscapes, the economic instruments for UK Forestry policy. 

ICF's Annual General Meeting (Members) and President’s Reception & Conference Dinner at
The Royal Over-Seas League, London (all welcome) take place on Day One.

Thursday 17 May
On Day Two (9.00am - 4.00pm) it's down to action and how will we rise to: 

• The changing face of forestry in the UK - From institutional change to rural policy and land use, the  new CAP Reform, balancing the objectives and economics of trees in heavily populated areas, forestry and the public's view;
• Meeting stakeholders’ needs - From society and nature, landowners to investors, the forestry professional and the future generation; 
• The greatest challenge - Adapting thinking from another profession and applying it to our own.

View the Full Programme

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Click on a heading below for more information on: 

• Online Booking Quick Link
• Programme and Speakers
• Sponsors and supporters 
• Ticket Types & How to book
• Accommodation - Where to stay
• ICF President's Reception & Conference Dinner sponsored by Christie-Elite
• Getting to the CBI Conference Centre
• Promotional Opportunities and Exhibition