The forests of the world in danger: crisis due to climate change and demand for wood

The forests of our planet are in danger, subjected to a high level of stress due to the combination of climate change and the increasing demand for wood, as warned by a recent study by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This report, titled "The State of the World's Forests 2024: Innovations in the Forest Sector Towards a More Sustainable Future," reveals alarming data about the current situation of our forest resources. One of the factors that is most affecting forests globally is the increase in the intensity and frequency of forest fires. In 2023, it is estimated that these fires released approximately 6687 megatons of carbon dioxide (CO2), contributing to global warming. Even in regions that were previously unaffected by this phenomenon, fires are wreaking havoc, showing the urgent need to address this issue. In the northern hemisphere, forest fires have reached unprecedented levels, representing almost a quarter of global CO2 emissions in 2021 due to prolonged drought. This situation highlights the vulnerability of our forests to extreme weather conditions caused by climate change, which also favor the spread of invasive species such as insects, pests, and pathogens that threaten the survival of trees. Specifically, the FAO report highlights the impact of the pine wood nematode in native pine forests in some countries in Asia, as well as the forecast of devastating damage in North American areas by 2027 due to insects and diseases. This situation underscores the need to take urgent measures to protect biodiversity and the health of our forests, which are crucial for ecosystem balance and human well-being. Despite these challenges, global wood production remains at record levels, with a growing demand expected to increase by up to 49% between 2020 and 2050. This raises the need to find sustainable solutions to meet this demand without compromising the health of our forests or the biodiversity they harbor. In this context, the FAO advocates for innovation in the forest sector as key to moving towards a more sustainable future. Science and technology play a crucial role in this process, with tools such as artificial intelligence that allow for the analysis of large volumes of data to improve forest management and prevent risks such as fires and pests. Furthermore, the FAO emphasizes the importance of inclusion and equity in forest management, promoting the participation of women, youth, and indigenous peoples in the development of locally-led solutions. It also highlights the need to implement financial innovations in both the public and private sectors to enhance the value of forests and ensure a fair distribution of benefits among all stakeholders. In summary, the FAO report alerts us to the critical situation of forests worldwide and the urgency of taking measures to protect them and ensure their long-term sustainability. Innovation, science, equity, and collaboration across different sectors are key to addressing current challenges and building a future where forests continue to play their fundamental role in the health of our planet and humanity.