March 21st marks International Day of Forests. This year's focus is on the link between forests and the economy. The Branch Chamber of Woodworking and Furniture Industry (BCWFI) emphasizes the vital role of forests for economic prosperity, job creation, and the transition to a sustainable bioeconomy.

Globally, 1.6 billion people are connected to forests. Wood provides income, jobs, and livelihoods. In Bulgaria, forests occupy nearly 39% of the territory, and their stock has tripled in the last 60 years. Our country is in first place for protected areas in the EU and is among the leaders in biodiversity in Europe.

Over 67,000 people work in forestry and the forest industry. They generate about 3% of the country's GDP. According to Eng. Petar Dishkov, an expert at BCWFI, the industry's potential could double with proper forest management, but in recent years the sector has been in collapse.

The implementation of planned forestry activities is at 70%. About 42% of the increment is harvested (compared to 70-75% in Europe). The implementation of tending cuttings is at 39%. Ineffective care leads to an increase in damage and diseases in forests, as well as an increase in forest fires.

Logging and transport companies are critical infrastructure. According to BCWFI, only active management can ensure a balance between the ecological, social, and economic aspects of forestry.

Wood harvesting for 2025 is expected to be record weak. The transported wood from temporary storage for the past year is only 80% of the planned amount. The quantity is 30% less than in 2018 (when the plans were fully implemented).