The EU’s Agriculture Ministers have welcomed the publication of a new EU Forest Strategy for 2030. In the conclusions adopted during last month’s agriculture and fisheries meeting, Ministers recognised the need for forests to contribute more to the European Green Deal and global targets such as the 2030 Agenda.
Forests’ essential roles for human health, animal health and a healthy natural environment were highlighted by Ministers under the ‘One Health’ approach. The new Forest Strategy’s emphasis on promoting sustainable wood-based products was considered to be key as are proposals to set up a new partnership for forestry research and innovation. Council conclusions also highlighted the need to strike a balance between the environmental, social and economic aspects of sustainable forest management. They stressed the importance of respecting and maintaining the diversity of forests and forest management practices in different Member States and regions.
