EU signs forest partnership with 5 partner countries at COP27

Forest partnerships encompass the European Union’s (EU) holistic cooperation framework for joint work on forests, aimed at reversing deforestation in supported countries and consequently enhance climate and biodiversity protection. Forests act as carbon sinks and are essential for both climate adaptation and mitigation, said the European Commission in a press release.

Through the forest partnerships, the partners reaffirm their long-term political commitment and intention to cooperate closely to: look for ways to facilitate production of and trade in legal and sustainable forest products; generate an economic transformation by stimulating the forest bio-economy, which would lead to job creation and socio-economic development through sustainable forest-related value chains and market access; reduce deforestation and forest degradation; and ensure sustainable forest management by improving forest governance and enhancing the business environment.

The MoUs for this forest partnership were signed by Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission president, on behalf of the EU in the presence of president of Guyana, Mohamed Irfaan Ali; president of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh; president of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema; representative of president of the Republic of Congo, Denis-Christel Sassou Nguesso; and president of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni.

“Forests are essential in so many respects: fighting against climate change, protecting biodiversity, providing means of subsistence to millions across the globe. Indeed, forests are home to 80 per cent of terrestrial species of plants, animals, and micro-organisms, while 1.6 billion people rely on forest resources for their livelihoods, food, and fuel. With so much at stake, it is essential to take impactful actions and reverse deforestation. So we need forest partnerships with as many partners as possible to maintain healthy forests for a more sustainable future. Through these partnerships, we will support our partners in sustainably managing and preserving forests, one of the world's richest natural resource to combat climate change and conserve biodiversity as well as to promote sustainable development,” said Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission president.

Forest partnerships and the €1 billion EU contribution to the Global Forests Finance Pledge were first announced at the UN Climate Change Conference COP26 in Glasgow. One year on, the signature of the five forest partnerships during COP27 is an opportunity to show translation of EU promises into concrete deliveries and to renew its commitment to protect, restore, and sustainably manage forests.

Furthermore, the EU has committed approximately 35 per cent of its external action budget in 2021 – 2027 to climate objectives and 7.5 per cent to biodiversity objectives.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (DP)