The European State Forest Association (EUSTAFOR) has released the two newest episodes of their podcast series, “The State of the Forests.” The second episode of the season addresses the growing need for forest fire management, while the third discusses the latest advances in nature conservation and biodiversity, as well as the political efforts impacting forests during the recently concluded Polish Presidency.
In the second episode, Roberto Stelstra discusses the increasing threat of wildfires across Europe with Francisco Javier Ezquerra Boticario from Junta de Castilla y León (Spain) and Monica Grindberg from Statskog (Norway). Topics include fire risk, prevention strategies, innovation, policy challenges, and public involvement. Forest fires are no longer solely a Southern European issue. Public awareness, local partnerships, and proactive policy adaptation are key to staying prepared.
We know how to manage fire risk through active forest management, but we need political will and support. Without these, rising wildfire danger could threaten both forests and people.
In the third episode, Dr inż. Neroj Bożydar – Head of the Forest Management Planning Department, General Directorate of State Forests, Poland – talks about how Poland, through its leadership during the EU Council Presidency, played a key role in advancing forest policy discussions, particularly around the proposed EU Forest Monitoring Law. Poland advocated for a bottom-up, expert-driven approach that respects national contexts while aiming for EU-wide data harmonisation.
We also explore Poland’s long-standing efforts in biodiversity and nature conservation, especially within state-managed forests, which are significantly covered by Natura 2000 areas. To ensure Europe’s forests remain healthy and resilient, policies must evolve in line with the accelerating impacts of climate change. Sustainable forest management requires science-based adaptation, continuous professional monitoring, and strong collaboration between policymakers, foresters, and society.
About the Podcast
The EUSTAFOR Podcast explores the many ways sustainably managed forests contribute to society, climate action, and biodiversity. Featuring experts, policymakers, and forest practitioners, each episode highlights key issues, challenges, and opportunities in European forestry. Stay tuned for insightful discussions on the future of forests and their role in a sustainable world.
