Can Latvia’s forest owners and farmers adapt to climate change? / Article

The Latvian Forest Industry Federation has also pointed out that the recent warm and rainy weather has left half of the harvested timber inaccessible because heavy machinery cannot enter the forest.

Climate change is prompting a growing need to explore alternative forest management strategies, as experts highlight that while these sectors are here to stay, they are bound to evolve – and that change is happening now.

The forest sector is undergoing change

Historically, forests have been one of Latvia’s largest economic resources, providing jobs and livelihoods for more than 40 000 people, and indirectly employing around 30 000 more in various related sectors, including transport, science, construction and energy. The important contribution of the timber industry to the national economy is undeniable, but the sector is increasingly facing challenges from climate change and changing weather patterns.

In recent years, Latvia’s forest sector has been facing significant challenges from climate change. Warm and wet winters often prevent heavy machinery from accessing the timber it prepares, creating logistical problems and increasing costs. Logging is also affected by poor road conditions and constraints that prevent the movement of timber in suitable conditions.

At a time when technology and advanced data analysis methods can predict future threats, relying solely on traditional forestry methods is no longer an effective long-term strategy. Impact forestry, which promotes sustainable and economically viable forest management, is gaining increasing attention.

The new approach, which has only recently been introduced in Latvia, involves extending harvesting cycles or avoiding clear-cutting, thereby increasing the ability of forests to sequester and store carbon for at least 40 years. In addition to the carbon sequestration benefits, this approach also contributes to the conservation of forest ecosystems and biodiversity.

Longer growing seasons mean a more stable ecological environment, less soil erosion and greater resilience to climate change. Forest owners can manage their forests more responsibly, while generating additional income from their property and thus reducing their dependence on volatile timber market demand cycles. In addition, once the carbon sequestration project is completed, forest owners can use the land as they see fit.

Adaptation and innovation

The future of forestry is closely linked to the ability to adapt to new conditions. Longer growing seasons and climate change require a rethink of tree species selection and management methods. For example, in Central Europe, spruce stands have already been gradually retreating northwards, which may also affect Latvia. Instead, the role of beech and other alternative tree species better suited to the new conditions could increase.

Improving infrastructure to ensure efficient and sustainable logging is also important. Road conditions and access to forests are becoming a critical issue, especially due to changing weather conditions. One solution could be the introduction of digital monitoring systems that would allow transport and logistics companies to better plan their operations based on real time information on road conditions and climatic conditions.

Climate change is coming

Climate change is an undeniable reality with profound implications for Latvia’s forestry sector. Sustainable and innovative forest management is becoming an essential prerequisite for maintaining the industry’s competitiveness and stability. Impact forestry and adaptation strategies that include sustainable tree breeding, the introduction of new species and smarter forest management solutions can bring long-term benefits, both economically and ecologically.

Forest owners and industry players who proactively adapt and seize new opportunities, rather than just reacting to crises, will be the winners. A forward-thinking approach to forestry will not only sustain Latvia’s economic prosperity but also safeguard its natural resources for future generations.

The author is CEO of Estonian climate technology company Arbonics.

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