European research institutes reaffirmed that the EU should rely very much on its forests by developing cutting-edge industrial technologies for its prosperity and market position. The European forests can be utilized in a sustainable way for the EU’s prosperity and competitiveness. The changing environment should be taken into account for the wellbeing of Europeans and research is vital to develop forest management system
Leading European forest research institutes argue that immediate action is necessary. Johanna Buchert, CEO and President of the Natural Resources Institute of Finland (Luke), stresses that the upcoming EU bioeconomy strategy must include specific research goals tailored to the forest-based sector to facilitate this transition.
The research institutes discusses the importance of a sustainable and resilient forest-based bioeconomy in Europe. It emphasizes that such an economy provides products and energy while addressing challenges like preserving biodiversity and combating climate change. Sustainably managed forests are seen as a strength for Europe, with the potential to enhance its competitive edge through forest-based value chains. European policies need to support this goal to reduce dependence on economic trends in countries like China and the United States.
Five institutes—the Austrian Research Center for Forestry, the Forest Research Institute in Sweden, the Norwegian Institute for Bioeconomy, the Slovenian Forestry Institute, and the Finnish Luke—provide policy recommendations highlighting essential changes needed to support this vision.
Building a Competitive European Bioeconomy through Sustainable Forest Management and Products
With a rising demand for forest-based materials to replace CO2-intensive fossil materials, Europe must prepare for this increased need. This involves developing value chains for high-quality products derived from forest biomass.
Charlotte Bengtsson, CEO of the Swedish Forest Research Institute, highlights the role of research in providing a comprehensive understanding of the various influences from different policy areas and in offering guidance on effective forest management practices. She also emphasizes the necessity for new innovations to maximize the value obtained from forests.
In reflection, the passage articulates a clear vision for Europe’s bioeconomy, one that relies heavily on sustainable forestry practices and innovative research. It acknowledges the dual challenge of meeting increasing demand for forest products while ensuring ecological sustainability. The emphasis on research and innovation suggests a forward-thinking approach, aiming to enhance both economic and environmental outcomes. This vision requires coordinated efforts across policy areas and the active development of new technologies and practices.
Research and Collaboration: Ensuring the Future of Europe’s Stressed Forests
Forests are under stress due to changing environmental conditions, necessitating research to understand cause-effect relationships, such as the impact of climate change on forest growth in Europe. Developing models to predict future growth trends and management strategies for all forest-related services is crucial. Forests provide invaluable market and non-market benefits that affect our well-being, making research-based knowledge essential for informed political decisions. Norbert Totschnig, Austria’s Minister for Agriculture, Forestry, Regions, and Water Management, supports collaboration between research institutes to shape a sustainable future. Europe’s forests are influenced by various current and future EU-level political decisions. Research must assess the overall impacts of these decisions, elucidating goal conflicts and trade-offs.
Region-Specific, Research-Based Strategies: The Key to Sustainable Forest Management in Europe
Meeting the diverse hopes and demands placed on forests requires more than a single approach or management system. Forest institutes advocate for region-specific, multifunctional management strategies and active forest management based on research. These strategies must effectively address current and future demands for wood and ecosystem services, considering regional ownership structures and traditions. Continued development of region-specific methods for utilizing forest resources is crucial. By adopting research-based multifunctional forest management strategies, Europe can significantly enhance its ability to achieve environmental, economic, and social goals, concludes Nike Krajnc, head of department at Slovenia’s Forestry Institute.
source: https://www.nibio.no/
