Forest Minister: Healthy Forests Secure Jobs and Climate Protection - Saxony's forests fight for survival amid climate and pest threats

Saxony's forests face growing threats from extreme weather and pests, prompting calls for urgent action. Forest Minister Georg-Ludwig von Breitenbuch has stressed the need to revitalise and diversify the state's woodlands. These ecosystems play a vital role in supporting jobs, tourism, and environmental protection across the region.

Forests in Saxony provide essential resources, from raw materials for industry to spaces for recreation and climate regulation. They underpin jobs in sectors like timber, tourism, and water management. While exact employment figures for Saxony's forestry sector remain unclear, neighbouring Thuringia reports 14,500 jobs in land and forestry, and Sachsenforst directly employs 1,400 people statewide.

Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and violent storms have weakened trees, making them more vulnerable to pests. These pressures threaten both the health of the forests and the services they provide. Healthy woodlands, for example, naturally filter water, cutting the cost of producing clean drinking supplies. They also help absorb heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding in nearby communities. The minister's push for rejuvenation aims to create more resilient, mixed-species forests. Such diversity would not only protect against environmental stress but also enhance the landscapes that draw tourists. Well-managed forests support outdoor activities, from hiking to wildlife watching, boosting local economies in rural areas.

Sustainable forestry practices could secure long-term benefits for Saxony's environment and workforce. By adapting to climate pressures, the state's woodlands would continue to supply industries, protect water sources, and attract visitors. The success of these efforts will depend on coordinated action across government, businesses, and conservation groups.