EU launches forest protection discussion

The European Union (EU) has launched a public debate on the issue of protecting forests on the continent.

The new Green Paper details the challenges which could impact on European forests and is a follow-up to the White Paper which was adopted by the European Commission (EC) back in April 2009.

Using the views put forward by the public consultation, as well as the opinions voiced by EU member states and institutions, the EC will come up with new measures to make sure that the continent's forest cover is protected.

"Europe's forests are a precious resource that must be protected against the harmful impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss. Their wide range of social, economic and environmental functions means that the stakes are high," said European environment commissioner Janez Potocnik.

Many South American nations have taken similar steps to ensure that their native forest cover, such as the tropical Amazon rainforest, is protected against the impact of modern industry and illegal clearing.

Written by Helen Montag.

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