BRITISH forestry bosses have reaffirmed the country's commitment to work with its partners across Europe to ‘shape our future with resilient forests’.
On behalf of the UK government, the Forestry Commission's chief executive this week signed two important declarations at the 9th Forest Europe Ministerial Conference in Bonn, Germany.
The first - the Bonn Ministerial Declaration - will see the UK and its partners: "Keeping the concept of Sustainable Forest Management fit for the future". While the Bonn Ministerial Decision concluded ministers will use: "Sustainable Forests Management as a tool to enhance forest resilience".
Speaking from Germany, Richard Stanford, said: “As our climate changes, there has never been a more crucial time for leaders across Europe to work together to ensure our trees and forests in the UK, and across the continent, are resilient to address the challenges we face.
"Climate change, pests and diseases do not respect borders."
Improving the resilience of Forests across Europe is central to the aim of Forest Europe, and this can be achieved through the sustainable management of our forests and woodlands.
The UK has committed to strengthen future relationships with European leaders, working together to improve the resilience of our forests in Europe and share the latest findings and developments in Sustainable Forest Management across the pan-European region.
Richard added: “The solution is sustainable forest management, which is a fundamental aim of Forest Europe and today alongside our European leaders, the UK has committed to continue to work together with our partners to protect and enhance our forests across Europe for generations to come."
Elsewhere in European forestry, the EU Commission has offered to delay the introduction of new rules that would outlaw the sale of products that come from forests, following an outcry from several governments claiming that it will damage trade and hurt small farmers.
Reacting to the news, a spokesperson for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) said: "FSC fully supports the creation of a deforestation-free market in Europe as a critical step to address the global climate and biodiversity crises.
"While the European Commission’s proposal to potentially postpone the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) still requires agreement with co-legislators, this should not be seen as a reduction in commitment to this vital legislation.
"The world’s forests urgently need protection. We encourage companies to leverage FSC’s existing and upcoming solutions to complement their efforts in meeting EUDR obligations.
"FSC remains committed to guiding companies through the requirements, ensuring they are prepared for compliance when the EUDR comes into effect."
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