The Ukrainian team behind the CircHive project participated in the second International Forestry Forum in Lviv. The forum brought together government officials, members of parliament, community leaders, scientists, commercial forest users, and representatives of the woodworking industry. The main topics of the forum were the transition to nature-based forestry, the further digitalization of the forestry sector, green restoration, and European integration.
Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture Taras Vysotsky emphasized that Ukraine’s forestry and woodworking sectors have significant potential for development thanks to a skilled workforce, active collaboration between the state, business, academia, and the public, and the ability to make a substantial contribution to the economy. However, its key challenge remains finding a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.To achieve this, it is necessary to improve legislation, maintain an open dialogue among all industry stakeholders, use available resources more efficiently, and implement scientific and practical solutions.
Prof. Orest Kiyko gave a presentation on “Strategic Development Goals for the Forestry Sector in the Context of Ukraine’s Green Recovery.”
In his presentation, he sought to address several questions regarding the sector’s strategic future, including:
- Why is the forestry sector important—and even a priority—for Ukraine?
- Are changes to the structure of Ukraine’s woodworking industry necessary?
- Are changes to the structure of foreign trade and domestic consumption in Ukraine’s woodworking industry necessary?
- Is there a need to recognize a shift in priorities within Ukraine’s woodworking industry?
- How can the institutional capacity of Ukraine’s forestry sector be improved?
The discussion confirmed that the key priorities remain European integration, the implementation of nature-based forestry principles, digital transformation, and increasing transparency in the timber market.
Forum participants agreed that only a combination of reforms, modern technologies, and responsible forest resource management will ensure the sector’s sustainable development, strengthen its economic potential, and simultaneously preserve the ecological balance.
The forum also served as a platform for new partnerships and practical solutions that will further contribute to the modernization of Ukraine’s forestry sector and its integration into the European market as a competitive and environmentally responsible industry.