Session 4: Social and economic impacts, challenges for forest policy
The bark beetle outbreak has marked a turning point in perceptions of the climate change risks, forest stability, and sustainability of forest management. The paths to maintaining adequate forest yields, ensuring social functions, and supporting stable ecosystems are less clear than ever before. Different stakeholders – forest owners and managers, environmentalists, wood-processing industry representatives, tourists, local communities, and the general public – hold various, often conflicting views on the future of forestry. We invite discussions on forest governance strategies to minimize economic and environmental risks, tackle current and future challenges, and address societal demands. We encourage all interested parties to contribute to this session by sharing their knowledge and perspectives on forest policy, governance, and long-term sustainability. Both theoretically and practically oriented contributions are welcome.