Northern Europe needs common scientific criteria to identify old-growth forests
Scientists say Northern Europe requires shared scientific standards to properly identify valuable old-growth forests.
Current forest coverage is low
Estimates suggest that only about three percent of European forests qualify as primary or old-growth areas. This specific category represents some of the continent's most threatened natural ecosystems.
Ecological benefits depend on structure
The value of these forests comes from their structural diversity and long-developed ecological processes. Dead trees and wood provide essential habitats for fungi, lichens, mosses, and many insect species.
Government rules vary by region
In Finland, mandatory criteria focus on the average age of the dominant tree stand and total deadwood volume. Experts note that these specific requirements do not yet apply universally across the region.
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