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Publication of the State of Europe's Forests 2025 report

On 27 March, Forest Europe published its State of Europe's Forests 2025 report. The reported indicators show that despite the increasing number and impacts of natural disturbances due to climate change, and the increasing complexity of making decisions regarding sustainable forest management, forests continue to provide their multifunctional role and bring the many benefits (economic, environmental and social) that society expects.

EU publishes its first integrated wildfire risk management strategy

The European Commission has published its first integrated wildfire risk management strategy, covering prevention, preparedness, response and recovery. Key actions include continued CAP support for active forest management, a strengthened EFFIS monitoring system, and a new Council Recommendation. CEPF welcomes the recognition of active forest management as essential.

International Day of Forests 2025: Forests and Economies

Forests play a fundamental role in supporting economies, livelihoods and well-being worldwide. They provide essential resources, generate employment and deliver ecosystem services that underpin productivity across multiple sectors. Ensuring their sustainable management remains key to maintaining these benefits over time.

Joint Statement on the Council Conclusions on the EU Bioeconomy Strategy

On 17 March, Member States adopted their position on the EU Bioeconomy Strategy. CEPF, together with Copa and Cogeca welcome the Council Conclusions, which underline the strategic role of forest owners in contributing to Europe’s strategic autonomy by providing sustainably sourced homegrown renewable materials for a widening range of use in the bioeconomy, ensured through the management of healthy and resilient forests. European forest owners especially welcome Member State’s explicit call for a predictable coherent policy framework around the European bioeconomy, where the “efficient implementation of the sustainability criteria for biomass set out in current Union legislation” is central for primary producing sectors.

CEPF's reply to the Commission's call for feedback on the carbon farming methodologies

CEPF welcomes the progress on the afforestation methodology under CRCF but highlights persistent challenges, including disproportionate monitoring burdens, restrictive eligibility criteria, and the need for clearer safeguards against changing legislation, calling for a more practical and inclusive framework for European forest owners.

burned forest landscape

Managed forests, lower wildfire risks - Turning proven knowledge into operational practices

Wildfire risks are rising across Europe. CEPF position paper calls for a unified yet flexible EU approach built on active Sustainable Forest Management. By reducing fuel loads, strengthening forest-based bioeconomy, aligning policies, and enhancing preparedness and coordination, Europe can turn proven knowledge into real action on the ground and build landscapes that are more resilient to wildfire.