The Northern Ireland forest service has welcomed a new edition of the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) after a comprehensive review process.

The new edition aims to make forests more resilient to a changing climate and the increased risk of pests and diseases.

The UKFS is the technical standard for forestry across the UK which provides the foundations for sustainable forest management.

This update will reflect improvements in scientific knowledge, developments in international approaches to forestry, new or amended legislation, and new information about best forestry practice.

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To allow users to become familiar with the new edition and for draft woodland plans to be finalised, a 12 month transition period is in place.

A Northern Ireland Forest Service spokesperson, said: "NI Forest Service, an Executive Agency of the Department of Agricultural, Environment and Rural Affairs, delivers the forestry responsibilities on behalf of the Department. The revised standard will guide forestry development and the management and protection of forests with increased resilience in NI."

Forestry Commission Chief Executive, Richard Stanford said: "The UK Forestry Standard is a vital resource – supporting foresters with the tools needed to manage our forests sustainably. Our woods and forests must remain resilient, healthy and vibrant to tackle climate change, providing habitats, timber and a range of wider environmental benefits.

"Today’s refresh will continue to support a coordinated, sustainable approach to forestry across our four nations to create forests and woodlands that are resilient to climate change and pests and diseases to help meet net zero ambitions."