Private forests in Greece play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, and supporting rural economies. However, managing these forests sustainably presents several challenges that need urgent attention.
One major issue is the fragmentation of forest ownership. Many private forests consist of small, scattered plots owned by multiple individuals. This fragmentation complicates effective management and reduces the possibility of implementing large-scale sustainable forestry practices. Additionally, many private forest owners lack the financial resources and technical expertise required for proper forest stewardship. This often leads to neglect, illegal logging, or conversion of forest land for agriculture or construction, which threatens ecosystem health. Environmental factors such as frequent wildfires, pests, and climate change further stress Greece’s private forests. The Mediterranean climate and increasing temperatures exacerbate
the risk of fire, while prolonged droughts reduce forest resilience. These pressures make sustainable management practices all the more essential.
Recent legal reforms in Greece aim to address some of these challenges. The Forest Code (Law 4685/2020) has introduced clearer definitions of forest boundaries and streamlined procedures for forest management planning. It also increases penalties for illegal logging and promotes incentives for reforestation and fire prevention on private lands. These regulatory
changes encourage private owners to engage in sustainable practices.
Solutions such as encouraging forest owner cooperatives can help overcome fragmentation by enabling collective management. Additionally, expanding financial incentives, technical support, and education for private forest owners is key to improving forest health and productivity.
In conclusion, while Greece’s private forests face significant management and sustainability challenges, ongoing regulatory reforms and collaborative approaches offer promising pathways to protect these vital natural resources for future generations.