At the beginning, a representative of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection explained that the political goal continues to be a targeted forest conversion in the direction of species-rich, climate-resilient forests with predominantly native tree species. Funding restrictions were lifted a few weeks ago, so that it is now possible again to resubmit projects to the Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR).
Dr. Dominik Jochem from the Thünen Institute explained in his lecture that an increase in the amount of damaged wood can be seen in hardwood, but that this is significantly lower than in coniferous wood. According to Jochem, the hardwood trade takes place mainly with riparian countries. For example, 83% of imported raw wood comes from the European Union. Two-thirds of exported finished goods are sold within the EU. According to Jochem, the energetic use of hardwood is 75%. This shows a clear need for research with regard to an increased material use of hardwood.
From the forest, increasing oak calamities were reported. The prices for good qualities, like the demand, are stable, albeit at a low level. However, industry players are concerned about the handling of wood infested with wood-destroying insects. Here it is time to bring the problem closer to end consumers and thus create greater awareness. It is expected that about a third of the quantities will be on the market before Christmas. In order to prevent losses in value of valuable oak stands, a forestry representative pleaded for consistent monitoring. Infested trunks should be removed from the forest quickly.
In order to increase the use of infested wood as a material, the participants discussed potential areas of application. One suggestion was to use worm oak more in interior design. Here, the public sector was called upon to take on a role model role in the awarding of projects. The relevant assortments would also be suitable for railway sleepers, but corresponding talks with the railway have so far been sluggish.
In the case of beech, the participants expect an increasing demand. According to industry representatives, there is stable sales for good quality. However, this is problematic for beech trees with red spelt, which are hardly in demand among consumers. Basically, the beech wood market is at a similar level as in previous years. It remains to be seen whether more trunk wood will come onto the market as a result of the lifted beech moratorium in Hesse. In perspective, however, the location of the beech was critically assessed. For example, the increase in the past decade decreased by 9%, while the mortality rate for old beech trees doubled, one participant explained.
Once again, the EUDR, which will be valid from the beginning of 2025, was criticized, especially the short deadline. However, the forestry representatives explained that they would also be able to provide corresponding reference numbers when the ordinance came into force. Nevertheless, efforts are still being made to extend the deadline.
