Austria's forests in danger: growing threats from climate change!

Austria's forests in danger: growing threats from climate change!

Austria's forests are faced with an unprecedented challenge: The continuous increase in the wood stock has changed the men of the tree landscape. According to Herbert Jöbstl, the chairman of the specialist association of the wood industry in Austria, the trees are now old and susceptible to the serious consequences of climate change such as storms, drought and the dreaded bark beetles. This forces us to actively manage the forests and ensure that they remain vital. A shocking statement by Jöbstl says: "The annual wooden harvest must be increased to ensure the CO2 memory in the wood industry in the future."

But the wood industry not only fights against nature, but also against the economy. The economic crisis in the construction industry, which has lasted for three years, significantly affects the wood market. The operating costs rise while the prices for wood stagnate. That is why Jöbstl urgently calls for measures to support the industrial location from the upcoming federal government: reduction in energy costs, reduction of the inconsistencies and simplification of bureaucracy. In addition, Austria urgently needs a timber construction offensive to create living space with local raw materials and boost the economy. "These measures are crucial to secure jobs and at the same time make a positive contribution to climate protection," Jöbstl demands and illustrates the importance of sustainable forest management, as already from Holzustrie.at highlighted.

The future viability of the wood industry

In order to master the challenges of climate change and to secure competitiveness, the specialist association of the wood industry demands a strong interaction between sustainable forest management and wood use. "Wood is not only a renewable raw material, but also an effective CO2 memory," explains Jöbstl. The industry could get serious difficulties without sustainable practices. The lack of clear framework conditions and the dependence on wooden inports are a risk for the business location, possibly combined with rising wood prices and additional costs for transport.

The wood industry contributes decisively to the stability of the Austrian budget with almost 12 billion euros in taxes and levies annually, as well as the presseau-sung.at emphasized. In view of the importance of the industry, it is essential that everyone involved pulls together to make both the forests and the wood industry sustainable. Jöbstl's urgent warning goes to everyone: "Good forest management is the key to climate protection and economic survival of our industry".