As a forestry skills shortage threatens to impede the UK’s ability to meet net zero targets, the sector’s professional body has launched a leadership programme in a bid to drive the industry forward – but says far more needs to be done if the UK is to deliver modern sustainable forestry on a large scale. …the Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) says it is impossible to meet UK environmental goals unless the existing workforce is expanded and upskilled – for which political support, better education and funding is vital. Now the ICF has launched the Emerging Leader Programme, developed in partnership with Clore Social Leadership and funded by the Defra Trees Call to Action fund. Participants will develop skills that will ensure effective management of our trees, forests and woodlands in order to face planting targets, climate change mitigation, the biodiversity crisis and the rising demand for timber and wood-based products.