A new political pathway in the EU forest policy
02.03.2010
European forest owners welcome a Green Paper on forest protection and information adopted by the Commission on 1st of March. The Green Paper aims at opening an EU-wide debate if and how the EU policy should evolve to prepare forest for climate change. Although the implication of development of this initiative to the forest sector is yet unrevealed, the paper undoubtedly opens a new political pathway in the EU forest policy. Read more »

European Commission ensures biomass leading role in reaching
26.02.2010
Brussels, 26 February 2010. The Consortium of European Biomass Associations (AEBIOM and EUBIA), European forest owner associations (EUSTAFOR, CEPF and NSF) and European Biogas Association (EBA) welcomes the European Commission’s report on sustainability criteria for solid and gaseous biomass for heat and electricity. The non-binding measures proposed will enable member states to ensure the sustainability of biomass whilst providing adequate opportunities to mobilise biomass resources. Read more »

International Year of Biodiversity launched
04.02.2010
Forests represent a major reservoir of biodiversity. Their contribution to preserving biodiversity has been and will remain essential. European family forest owners are the guardians of this natural heritage. They invest in the conservation of biodiversity to ensure the ecological balance in their forests. The owners treat forests and all varieties of species and ecosystems with respect, as it is an integral part of their livelihood. The International Year of Biodiversity 2010 sets the scene to enhance these practical dimensions of life and respect for nature. Read more »

The way forward for forestry after COP15
04.02.2010
The forests’ role in climate change got a further boost at the global negotiations at COP15. Key issues for the reduction of emissions from deforestation and degradation (REDD+) were agreed. Progress in streamlining the negotiations on accounting rules for forestry can be seen also as steps forward for the possible inclusion of "sustainable forest management" as a fundamental part of the mitigation of global warming. Read more »

Is a European forest communication strategy needed?
04.02.2010
The majority of the European citizens perceive that the area of forests is decreasing in their respective countries. Forests are mainly associated with the home of natural habitats and something that is of worth in pursuing leisure activities. The appreciation for productive functions of forests has never been extensive, but has been alarmingly declining even more in the last decade. Read more »