Foresting Tomorrow #20 | Special Guests: Ben Gunneberg (UKWAS Chair) & Peter Wilson (UKWAS Working Group Chair)

Foresting Tomorrow is a weekly podcast hosted by Jens Isbak and Rasmus Pedersen. In episode #20, Jens and Benjamin welcome special guests Ben Gunneberg (UKWAS Chair) and Peter Wilson (UKWAS Working Group Chair).

We begin with an introduction to these two distinguished guests, whose extensive and inspirational careers in UK forestry include roles in organisations such as the Timber Growers Association, PEFC, UKWAS, SBP, and the Institute of Chartered Foresters, to name a few.

We then turn our attention to the UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS)—how it all started, the fact that UKWAS is not a scheme but a standard-setting body, and how it was first endorsed by FSC before later being recognised by PEFC. We discuss the evolution of UKWAS across five versions, highlighting both successes and challenges along the way.

Additionally, we explore whether other countries have considered adopting a similar setup and whether any have attempted it over the years. The discussion concludes with the current state of Version 5, which is in a challenging position as it awaits FSC International’s endorsement.

All in all, this episode is packed with insights and knowledge about UKWAS, PEFC, and FSC—essential listening for anyone interested in forestry certification and sustainability.