The role of forests in the bioeconomy

Bioeconomy has been much discussed topic recently. Expected environmental, economic and social impacts (creating jobs in rural areas, climate change mitigation, food security) are highlighting the importance that should be paid to this topic. Forestry might look as a small part of the bioeconomy, but with a significant role. The aim of this paper is to assess the importance of forestry in the bioeconomy and to point to some confusion. The role of forests can be found in de/recarbonisation that is important in context of energy and meeting climate objectives. Wood as a renewable source is further used for alternative products with a great potential in the future. Higher demand for wood emphasizes the role of good forest management, but there are some risks and doubts arising from certain ambiguities concerning the use of forests for the society in the best way.