Mayo people recognise importance of their forests
A total of 81% of the Irish public believe Ireland needs to grow more trees to help combat climate change, according to a recent Red C Research survey commissioned by Coillte, the semi-state forestry company.
Furthermore, 86% of those surveyed agree that getting out into nature and exploring their local forest has a positive impact on their physical and mental wellbeing, while 82% believe forests are important for nature and biodiversity, which is central to Coillte’s strategic vision.
Of all respondents, 74% agree that having a mix of trees, such as conifers that grow quickly and capture carbon at a high rate, along with broadleaves that provide a long-term store of carbon, is important for climate action.
In terms of tackling climate change, the majority surveyed (66%) are in favour of using Irish wood as an alternative building material to high-carbon materials such as concrete and steel.
Mayo’s top Coillte forests for recreation include Tourmakeady Wood, Raheen’s Wood, Castlebar, and Belleek Wood, Ballina.
Speaking about the survey, Colm O’Dwyer, Regional Manager Coillte, said, “It is encouraging to know that the majority of the Irish public recognises the importance of forests in terms of both physical and mental health as revealed in our survey.
"Getting out into nature at this time of year offers the perfect balance to all the busyness in the lead up to Christmas and Mayo has a range of beautiful Coillte forests for people to enjoy, including Tourmakeady, Raheen’s Wood and Belleek.”
The survey findings support Coillte’s forestry strategic vision which aims to deliver multiple benefits from its forests and bring more focus to climate action, with ambitious targets on biodiversity and recreation, while continuing to deliver for the forest and wood products industry.
The focus of Coillte’s vision is on sustainably balancing and delivering the multiple benefits from Ireland’s state forests across four strategic pillars: Climate, Wood, Nature and People.