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Environmental information systems
Europe’s forest ecosystems are described according to different classification systems. Some classifications reflect the forest ecosystem structure and functions at the ecosystem level. Others emphasize habitats, species and genetic variation.
Forest ecosystem mapping in Europe
The Corine Land Cover classifies forest types at the broadest level: coniferous, broadleaved and mixed forests, and transitional woodland and shrub (“What is a forest”).
Coniferous forests make up the largest share of Europe's forests
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The European Forest Type scheme highlights 14 forest categories across Europe, that can be further disaggregated to 78 forest types. Characteristic tree species of each of the European forest types are defined in the European Atlas of Forest Tree Species, which provides information on over 100 key tree species in Europe using a combination of extensive field observations and habitat suitability modelling.
EUNIS classification
The European Nature Information System (EUNIS) distinguishes 46 spatially represented forest habitat types. The habitat types are cross-referenced to the European Forest Types. The majority of forest habitat types in Europe are broadleaved deciduous woodlands and coniferous woodlands.
Broad-leaved deciduous and coniferous woodland make up the largest area of the European habitat types
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