Use of the internet and social media in the forestry profession in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Social media should enable professional bodies to improve their communication with members, policy makers and the general public. Current use of the internet, particularly of social media, by foresters in the United Kingdom was surveyed to determine opportunities for their professional body, the Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) to improve engagement. Existing use of social media was high, especially by younger early career Associate Members. This indicated an opportunity for the ICF to provide continuing professional development training via forms of social media such as live streamed on-line seminars (a webinar). A pilot webinar on forests and carbon was given to a small group of participants who then completed a short on-line survey to record their experience. Responses to the pilot webinar were positive. Implications for forestry in the UK and for other professional bodies are discussed.