A New National Forest on Our Doorstep
As Earth Month begins, there is good reason for celebration following the UK government’s recent announcement about the creation of the Western Forest, England’s first new national forest in 30 years (Gov.uk).
Led by the Forest of Avon Trust and wider partners, this initiative will significantly expand the UK’s forests. This will improve the environment and could represent a step towards more local sustainable forestry to support the future of our industry.
At Chaunceys Timber Flooring, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s at the core of everything we do. From supplying responsibly sourced and reclaimed timber to eco-conscious manufacturing, we are dedicated to ensuring that the natural beauty of wood can be enjoyed without compromising the environment. So, naturally, we were delighted to hear this exciting news.
The Plan: What Is the Western Forest?
Announced by the Government in March 2025, the Western Forest will span across Bristol, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and Somerset, bringing together woodland, green spaces, and conservation efforts to:
- Plant 20 million trees by 2050.
- Increase tree coverage from 11% to 30% in targeted areas.
- Store 2.5 million tonnes of carbon, contributing to the UK’s net-zero goals.
- Enhance biodiversity and create vital habitats for wildlife.
This initiative is especially significant for Bristol-based businesses like ours, as it will have a direct impact on the local environment, air quality, and the UK’s future timber resources.
Map showing the boundary of the Western Forest (Source: Forest of Avon Trust/LUC)
As a supplier of high-quality, sustainable wood flooring, we understand that responsible forestry is the foundation of our business. The Western Forest directly supports many of the sustainability goals we advocate for:
Sustainably Sourced Timber
According to a 2023 House of Commons report, the UK imported 81% of all its timber in 2021, making it the second-highest net importer of wood in the world. This reliance on imports increases carbon emissions from transport and limits local control over sustainability practices. The Western Forest could help boost domestic timber production, reducing our reliance on imports while ensuring strict environmental standards.
At Chaunceys, we already source timber from well-managed European forests, but an increase in responsibly grown British timber could support our commitment to sustainable, locally sourced, high-quality materials.
Reforestation Supports Carbon Capture
Trees act as carbon sinks, helping offset the carbon footprint of industries, including construction and interior design. As timber suppliers, we recognise that responsible reforestation is essential for keeping the timber trade truly sustainable. Find out more about carbon capture in this blog.
By promoting the growth of new forests, we’re not just planting trees—we’re investing in a renewable resource that will benefit future generations and promote a circular economy.
A Greener Built Environment
The government’s Timber in Construction Roadmap aims to increase the use of sustainable timber in UK buildings. With the Western Forest increasing local wood supplies, we hope to see a shift toward more timber-based, carbon-negative construction, aligning with our belief that natural materials can shape beautiful, sustainable spaces.
Chaunceys’ Ongoing Commitment to Sustainability
This initiative reaffirms the importance of everything we already do at Chaunceys, including:
- Sourcing sustainable timber from responsibly managed forests.
- Reducing waste through precision cutting and recycling offcuts.
- Investing in low-impact finishes that enhance durability without harmful chemicals.
- Encouraging clients to choose sustainable wood flooring solutions and reclaimed timber.
Sustainability in wood flooring isn’t just about how the timber is harvested—it’s about getting the most out of this beautiful renewable resource, and ensuring forests continue to thrive long after our floors are installed.
Facing the Challenge
The Western Forest is a huge step toward a greener future, promoting a circular economy by using locally grown timber, and supporting a more self-sufficient UK timber industry. But it’s up to wood flooring suppliers like us, as well as architects, designers, and homeowners, to ensure that wood remains a responsible, sustainable choice.
A 2023 House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee report discusses the challenges of sourcing timber sustainably in the UK. The report reveals that any future sustainable wood flooring production in the UK would involve:
- Utilising timber sourced from sustainably managed forests, ideally certified under schemes that align with the UKFS or equivalent standards.
- Exploring the potential of both domestically grown softwood and hardwood. And considering their suitability for different types of flooring products, and supporting management practices that improve hardwood quality.
- Prioritising the use of timber for long-lived products like flooring. And aligning with the hierarchy of best uses for wood to maximise carbon storage.
- Supporting and demanding transparency and robust monitoring of sustainable forestry practices.
- Potentially utilising engineered wood products that can make use of a wider range of timber resources, including domestically grown hardwoods.
Looking Ahead
We’re looking forward to continuing our involvement in as many tree-planting initiatives as possible by sending our team as volunteers to support local groups, including the Forest of Avon Trust.
By supporting reforestation, choosing ethical suppliers, and prioritising responsible material use, we can help build a future where natural wood flooring and environmental conservation can continue hand in hand.
Minimising Our Environmental Impact
We take pride in running an environmentally ethical business. Find out more about our sustainable practices.
See Our Sustainability
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