SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF UKRAINE’S FORESTRY IN THE CONTEXT OF EU POLICY: NATURE-ORIENTED FORESTRY, BIOMASS, AND PROSPECTS FOR GREEN RECONSTRUCTION

Abstract

Sustainable Development of Ukraine’s Forestry in the Context of EU Policy: Nature-Oriented Forestry, Biomass, and Prospects for Green Reconstruction The article explores modern approaches to forest management in Ukraine and the European Union. Particular attention is paid to analyzing the principles of closer-to-nature forestry (CNF) and their impact on ensuring the sustainability of forest ecosystems. The focus is on the results of the roundtable discussion “Wood in Ukraine’s Reconstruction and Development”, organized by FSC®, which served as a platform for discussing the role of wood in Ukraine’s green reconstruction. It is noted that despite its significant potential, Ukraine’s forestry sector faces a number of challenges, including forest degradation, a high share of sanitary logging (60%), and a low share of commercial timber (49%). European experience demonstrates the effectiveness of an integrated approach to forest management that combines ecological and economic objectives. The key principles of CNF, such as maintaining diverse forest structures, using local tree species, and preserving natural habitats, contribute to the sustainable development of the sector. EU strategies such as the EU Forest Strategy for 2030 and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 can serve as useful models for implementation in Ukraine, supporting biodiversity conservation and adaptation to climate change. At the VI Forum of the Ukrainian Forest Platform, the role of forest biomass as a strategic resource for energy and other sectors was discussed. Participants emphasized the need to digitize forest management processes, improve monitoring, and harmonize Ukrainian legislation with EU standards. Plans include organizing study visits to Latvia and other countries, enabling Ukrainian specialists to adopt best practices in forest resource management. The research findings indicate that to ensure the sustainable development of its forestry sector, Ukraine must adopt European practices, improve the efficiency of resource use, and enhance international cooperation. The article provides recommendations for biodiversity conservation, reducing illegal logging, and improving forest management systems.