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Environmental information systems
Forest management is the planning and implementation of practices to better manage and use forests and their resources. Such planning is generally done through management instruments, e.g., management plans. Active management is required to preserve forest ecosystem functions, carbon stocks, biodiversity, and to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts.
Main messages
85% of Europe’s forests are under active management.
Management practices can be tailored to achieve different forest services.
Strategic planning is important for sustainable forest management.
Related policies
EU Forest Strategy for 2030 contributes to achieving the EU’s biodiversity objectives and greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of at least 55% by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050.
EU Nature Restoration Law aims to restore ecosystems, habitats and species across the EU’s land and sea areas.
The Birds and Habitats Directives provide a strong legislative framework for all EU countries to protect the most valuable and threatened biodiversity.
Renewable Energy Directive establishes guidelines for the sustainable use and promotion of renewable energy in the European Union. It sets criteria for the forest management approach inside and outside the EU.
Related resources
Global Forest Resources Assessment (FAO) contains information on forest area designated to different management objectives per country.
Eurostat forestry database contains statistics on timber removals, wood products and trade, economics employment, forest resources and environmental functions.
Horizon Europe. EU’s key funding programme for research and innovation.