In Switzerland, the Federal Office for the Environment (OFEV) compiles an annual greenhouse gas balance sheet. For forests, it takes into account the famous three S’s: CO\u2082 Sequestration, carbon Storage in wood products, and material and energy Substitution.<\/p>\n
In this regard, the vitality and biodiversity of the forest ecosystem are fundamental to its functionality and resilience. Adaptive, nature-based forestry combined with the thoughtful use of wood for various material and energy purposes can thus enhance the climate services provided by forests and wood.<\/p>\n
Under international climate agreements, Switzerland has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and must report annually on this in its national inventory.<\/p>\n
Forest sequestration corresponds to the net CO\u2082 balance of the ecosystem. Forests are carbon sinks when they absorb more CO\u2082 than they emit. To maintain a positive balance, taking silvicultural measures to adapt to climate change is essential.<\/p>\n
For carbon storage in wood products, only products made from wood harvested in Switzerland are taken into account.<\/p>\n
Under the Kyoto Protocol, it is possible to achieve its objectives by resorting to other agricultural activities that capture CO\u2082 from the atmosphere, but Switzerland has chosen to rely solely on forest management and wood products to meet its commitments.<\/p>\n
In a study on the climate benefits of forest management and wood use in Switzerland, the OFEV found that:<\/p>\n
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The study provides a solid basis for the development of forestry and timber policy in Switzerland, and its conclusions have been incorporated into the Comprehensive Strategy for Forestry and Timber 2050.<\/p>","protected":false},"featured_media":46066,"template":"","acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n