Health and social woodland benefits and non-wood forest product opportunities: literature review

Non wood forest products and services: use, opportunities and barriers

Research suggests that the availability of non-wood forest products may be more limited in Wales compared to other countries. Despite this, the review identified a small number of examples of initiatives in Wales aimed at expanding the market for non-wood forest products. These were found to enhance understanding of the economic potential of these products. Further, research suggests public interest in activities such as foraging.

Forest-based services which provide opportunities for tourists through nature-based recreation and hospitality were found to be particularly valuable for businesses.

The review also highlights the barriers that exist for businesses trying to market non-wood forest products or profit from recreation and tourism services offered in forests.

Health and social benefits of woodlands

Forest environments can offer psychological and physiological health benefits by lowering stress-related indicators like heart rate and cortisol levels, enhancing emotional well-being, and encouraging physical activity.

However, these benefits may not always be experienced equally across social groups. Factors affecting this include demographic and social inequalities, frequency of visits, proximity to greenspace and the types of activities people engage in.

Structural and demographic barriers include limited availability of nearby greenspace, travel costs and feeling excluded or underrepresented in green space.