Forest Management in the Climate Crisis: Building Resilience and Sustainability at the PEFC Forest Forum

14 June 2024 PEFC Forest Forum

Forests are at a critical juncture as climate change reshapes their landscapes, impacting their diversity, health, and resilience to pests, droughts, and fires. However, forest products, such as wood and fibre, hold considerable promise in combating climate change.

In the face of a warming world, the forest sector is focusing on adaptation, mitigation, and decarbonisation to respond to the challenges of climate change.

The PEFC Forest Forum 2024 in Paris, France highlighted forest management in the climate crisis, showcasing good practices that build resilience and sustainability.

We were delighted to welcome knowledgeable speakers on stage, who shared insights on adaptation, mitigation, and decarbonisation across various sectors, provided practical examples and offered an outlook into the future.

Bernard de Galembert from WBCSD highlighted the forest sector's crucial role in climate change mitigation, advocating for "de-fossilisation" over "decarbonisation." He highlighted trends such as urbanisation and unsustainable use of resources, which require proactive forest management in the face of increasing climate risks.

Since the Paris Agreement, the sector has focused on circularity, enhancing carbon absorption, and transitioning to renewable energy.

Challenges remain in adopting eco-friendly technologies and managing resource-intensive operations. Key actions include boosting carbon storage and promoting sustainable forestry practices under frameworks like the Greenhouse Gas Protocol.

Integrating sustainable forest management with proactive climate adaptation strategies is crucial for tackling climate risks and promoting sustainable development, aiming to cut environmental impacts while capitalizing on new business opportunities.

Marie-Aude Stofer from the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty highlighted the decline in French forests' carbon absorption capacity, necessitating active management despite natural challenges. Issues include wildlife populations threatening forest regeneration and increased tree mortality due to climate change, putting 15% of French forests at risk in the next decade.

In response, President Emmanuel Macron announced an action plan to plant one billion trees, renewing over 10% of French forests within ten years.

Amy Duchelle from the FAO highlighted the essential role of forests in climate change adaptation and resilience. While forests are recognised for their mitigation potential, they increasingly face threats from climate-related stressors like wildfires and pests. The IPCC's latest report emphasises forest-based adaptation, recognising its feasibility and synergies with mitigation.

The FAO's 2022 report outlines principles for inclusive adaptation, focusing on local engagement and ecosystem services such as food, water, and soil erosion control.

Claudiu-Nicolae Sonda from CEI-Bois discussed promoting timber construction as a climate solution. He highlighted that using wood in construction reduces both operational and embodied emissions, and mentioned non-legislative initiatives and efforts by EU member states, including the Agriculture and Fisheries Council's focus on the bio economy and the Wood Policy Platform, which seeks to advance wood-based policies.

Sarah Price from Sappi Europe discussed Sappi's proactive approach to decarbonisation. She emphasised their commitment to reducing emissions, particularly in Europe where stringent policies drive their sustainability efforts. Sappi aims to achieve significant reductions in emissions and enhance energy efficiency, transitioning to sustainable energy sources.

Sarah highlighted the synergy between industry decarbonisation and sustainable forest management, noting forests' role in providing fuel for their initiatives.

The PEFC Forest Forum 2024 underscores the importance of sustainable forest management in addressing the climate crisis. By showcasing practical solutions and fostering collaboration, the forum aims to inspire action and drive progress in building resilience and sustainability in forests globally.