Legislative doctrine of the sustainable development of forests in the context of the European Green Deal

Abstract

The article examines the European model of sustainable forest management and its significance for Ukraine in the context of European integration processes and climate policy implementation. The authors emphasize that forestry is an integral part of the European Union's current environmental and economic strategy, as forests serve key functions: they are natural carbon sinks, centers of biodiversity, and an important resource for the development of the bioeconomy. The European Green Deal, the EU Forest Strategy for 2030, the European Climate Law, and the Fit for 55 legislative package form a comprehensive legal framework that defines the directions for sustainable forest development, protection, and restoration.

The implementation of these documents is of strategic importance for Ukraine: it will harmonize national legislation with European standards, ensure the adaptation of forest ecosystems to climate change, modernize management mechanisms, introduce digital technologies in the field of forest management, and support sustainable logging levels. Ukraine has already achieved key milestones on its path to EU membership by completing a bilateral screening with the European Commission, which creates favorable conditions for the further implementation of European standards in the forest sector.

Sustainable forest management has not only environmental but also socio-economic dimensions. The forest bioeconomy can create new jobs, develop innovative technologies, and improve the well-being of local communities. At the same time, in wartime and post-war conditions, forest protection takes on particular importance as a strategic resource for the environmental and economic security of the state.

The implementation of the European model of sustainable forest management in Ukraine is a necessary condition for achieving environmental sustainability, harmonising legislation, and integrating into the European legal space. This will help combine economic growth, social well-being, and the protection of natural resources, ensuring the strategic development of the state in accordance with European values and sustainable development goals, also taking into account the challenges posed by military aggression.