As Europe faces pressing challenges including decarbonisation, economic growth, and the sustainable use of natural resources, a new report highlights the crucial role of European forests and wood products in addressing these issues. Released by a coalition representing forest owners, cooperatives, and wood industries, the report underscores how managed forests contribute to ecological, social, and economic resilience.
The report also considers the impact of current geopolitical challenges, including the war in Ukraine, which have heightened the need for Europe to build resilience and strengthen strategic autonomy. European forests are a vital resource for the region, and this report emphasizes the importance of sustainable management to maximize benefits across different forest landscapes. Recognizing that European forests vary widely, the report advocates for sustainable forest management that allows flexibility and local expertise to guide detailed management decisions, aligning with overarching European goals while respecting the autonomy of Member States.
As a step forward, the coalition behind the report supports the proposal for a Clean Industrial Deal and a new Bioeconomy Strategy, aiming to work collaboratively with EU policymakers to advance a sustainable European bioeconomy that benefits future generations. The coalition’s manifesto and this report reflect a commitment to actively contributing solutions and building a robust bioeconomy for Europe.
The full report is now available and offers a comprehensive look at the role of forests in Europe’s sustainable future. Read it here: The European Forest Coalitions’ input on The Clean Deal and the New EU Bioeconomy Strategy.
