Climate change increases German forests: exceed emissions

The alarm bells ring! The latest results of the forest inventory are a shock for environmental and forestry. Germany, the land of forests, has released more climate -damaging carbon dioxide into the air for the first time when our green lungs can save! Thanks to the devastating storms and relentless droughts in 2017 and 2018, ecological balance was lifted out of joint.

But what does that mean for the future of our forests? Perhaps it is a unique event. But experience teaches us: climate change does not stop and could accompany us for a long time. The question is, are we ready to face the challenges? The pressure on the forests is growing, and those responsible must now act to improve the situation.

forestry in front of a new era

To meet the forests, a rethink is essential! It is high time that forest owners and forester pay attention to the regeneration ability of the biotopes. That means acting clever! Less tree felling and planting other, more resistant tree species could be the solution. Yes, this could initially press the yield, but in the long term, more ecological forestry has enormous opportunities: rising wood prices could brighten the invoice in the long run!

and while forestry is fighting with these thoughts, it is important not to ignore the legal situation. A new forest law that does not allow overuse could be the key to a healthy, sustainable forest. Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir (Greens) offers compromises! It is not about forbidding the use of the forests, but paving the way for moderate use. A nationwide jungle cannot and must not be the only solution!

accept the challenge

The needs of nature and humanity must finally be reconciled. The forests need protection, but the obvious cost-benefit relation cannot be ignored. It is important to find a balance to preserve our forest for future generations. The preservation of nature must not be done at the expense of forestry! Together we have to find the courage to break new ground.