The General Directorate of Forests and Forest Environment became the PEFC national member for Greece in 2024.

Since coming into office in 2023, the new Greek government has committed to developing a national forestry certification system to strengthen sustainable forest management in Greece.

This effort builds on a previous government-funded project that established a national sustainable forest management standard in Greece. The next step is the formal application for PEFC forest certification, ensuring that Greek forests meet internationally recognised sustainability criteria.

The General Directorate of Forests and Forest Environment will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and improving the PEFC Forest Management national standard in Greece.

This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing forest resilience, promoting responsible forest management, and safeguarding Greece’s forests for future generations.

History before PEFC

Greece’s forests cover about 70% of the country’s land, with 40% included in Natura 2000 sites, reflecting their high ecological value. After the extensive damage of the war years, Greece rebuilt its forestry framework around conservation and sustainable management.

Updated technical standards and new technologies are strengthening the monitoring and management of forest ecosystems. Greece continues to face major challenges from climate change, particularly droughts, floods, and wildfires, which drive the need for adaptive and resilient forest management.

Since the mid-20th century, Greece has been sustainably managing its forests with the aim of preserving and protecting the country's forest ecosystems, ensuring that forests remain a vital resource for future generations. Developing standards compatible with international schemes will help demonstrate Greece’s forest policy as a model for sustainable development, while also meeting international requirements and environmental needs of the modern era.

Greek system information

Joined PEFC: 11 November 2024