On 1 March 2010, the European Commission launched a public consultation to seek stakeholders' views on the protection of forests and possible EU action in the field. Interested parties are invited to send their contribution by 31 July 2010 using the Your Voice in Europe website.  

Input received will inform and guide Commission considerations regarding any additional action at EU level to better prepare EU forests for climate change, and enhance the fulfilment of their functions. It may also provide input for discussions concerning the possible update of the EU Forest Strategy on climate related aspects.

The consultation is based on a Green paper which:

• Presents existing forest information systems and the tools available to protect forests;
• Sets out the main challenges facing Europe's forests; and
• Raises a series of questions relevant to developing options for future forest protection and information in the EU under a changing climate.  

Since competence for forest policy lies primarily with the Member States, the debate should focus on how climate change is modifying forest management and protection in Europe and how EU policy should evolve to enhance its contribution to Member State initiatives.

As part of the consultation the Commission will organise a workshop and stakeholder meeting in Brussels as part of Green Week on 3 June. The Green Paper will also be discussed at a forest protection conference being organised by the Spanish presidency in Valsain, Spain, on 6-7 April.