Deforestation and forest degradation are among the most significant factors accelerating the negative effects of climate change. Halting this process and restoring forest ecosystems are among the most effective ways to reduce CO2 emissions. Therefore, systemic solutions are necessary to stop deforestation, such as the EUDR regulation or forest management certification, which ensures the highest standards in this field.
The United Nations estimates that approximately 10 million hectares of forests disappear globally each year, equivalent to one-third of Poland’s land area. Although forest coverage is increasing in Europe and the EU, our consumption still impacts forests worldwide, mainly through the conversion of forested land into non-forest areas. “We must stop and reverse this process because deforestation and forest degradation are among the most significant factors accelerating the negative effects of climate change,” emphasizes Marek Rzońca, Forestry Coordinator at FSC Poland, in an interview with Newseria.
According to WWF, despite commitments by many governments, companies, and other partners to end deforestation, millions of hectares of forests continue to disappear annually—an area the size of a football field vanishes every second. Agriculture bears the primary responsibility for this, particularly cattle ranching, palm oil production, and soybean cultivation. Unregulated logging, road construction, and other activities further contribute to the destruction of forest habitats.
Forests in the EU and Biodiversity Decline
The EU hosts about 5% of the world’s total forest area. Forests cover approximately 43% of the EU’s land area. However, as reported by the European Environment Agency (“The European Environment: State and Outlook 2020”), Europe has experienced a significant decline in biodiversity in recent years. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) highlights that deforestation is one of the primary causes of the climate crisis. Stopping this process and restoring forest ecosystems are among the most effective ways to reduce CO2 emissions and, consequently, combat climate change.
“The rate of deforestation and forest degradation worldwide is so rapid that systemic solutions are already essential. One such measure is the EU’s regulation against deforestation, the EUDR,” says Michał Kotarski, Market Development and Communications Manager at FSC Poland.
The EUDR Regulation: Combating Deforestation
The EUDR regulation aims to ensure that key product groups sold and consumed in the EU or exported from it do not contribute to deforestation and forest degradation. Companies will be required to conduct due diligence to ensure that the products they source—such as palm oil, soy, cocoa, coffee, cattle, and rubber, and particularly wood and wood-based products like boards, plywood, cardboard, recycled paper, and paper—are legally sourced and not linked to areas deforested or degraded after December 31, 2020.
Initially set to take effect on December 30, 2024, the regulation will now be enforced 12 months later, at the end of 2025.
“It is also extremely important that we change our attitudes as consumers. We must learn to make decisions that are more environmentally friendly. Globally recognized certifications such as FSC can help with this,” adds Michał Kotarski.
The Role of FSC Certification in Sustainable Forest Management
FSC certification guarantees sustainable forest management, confirming adherence to the highest standards. Annual audits verify that the forests supplying timber are managed in compliance with the latest scientific knowledge and environmental requirements. This helps protect biodiversity and ecosystems.
“FSC certification has been present in Poland for nearly 30 years and covers one-third of the country’s forests. FSC prohibits illegal logging and deforestation in certified areas. Pesticide use in certified forests is highly restricted, and forest managers must designate reference areas where no economic activities take place. FSC standards protect the rights of local communities and workers while raising health and safety standards for forestry workers,” explains Kotarski.
Nearly two-thirds of Polish consumers prefer to purchase products that do not harm plants and animals or contribute to climate change. The FSC label is the most recognizable certification mark related to sustainable development among surveyed Polish consumers, according to a global Ipsos survey, where half of Polish respondents identified it.
“Certificate holders undergo regular audits conducted by independent bodies. As consumers, purchasing a product with the FSC label assures us that it comes from responsibly managed forests,” emphasizes Kotarski.
The Importance of Forests for Life on Earth
As highlighted by FSC, forests are home to over 80% of terrestrial plant and animal species and are the most biologically diverse terrestrial ecosystems on Earth. They mitigate climate change by reducing temperature fluctuations and absorbing carbon dioxide. Acting as the planet’s “green lungs,” they filter air pollutants. In total, the world’s forests provide half of the oxygen needed by all humans and animals, producing around 26 billion tons of oxygen annually. A single mature pine tree produces enough oxygen for three people, while one hectare of forest generates about 700 kg of oxygen within 24 hours, meeting the daily needs of 2,500 people, according to data from the Polish State Forests.
“Forests provide us with food, medicines, and timber used in construction. Their significance extends beyond production; they also play a social role, providing livelihoods for many local communities. Sustainable forest management supports environmental and ecological functions, maintaining soil health, protecting water resources, and serving as a biodiversity sanctuary while mitigating climate change effects,” notes Marek Rzońca.
International Day of Forests and the Role of Forests in Food Security
The United Nations General Assembly has declared March 21 as the International Day of Forests, celebrating and raising awareness of the importance of all types of forests. In 2025, the theme will be “Forests and Food,” emphasizing the crucial role forests play in food security, nutrition, and livelihoods. Currently, up to 5 billion people rely on forest products for their livelihoods, including food and medicine. In some countries, forests contribute around 20% of household incomes in rural areas.
