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Characterization and Evaluation of the Organizational and Legal Structures of Forestry in the European Union

Author

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  • Jarosław Brożek

    (Department of Forestry Economics and Technology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 28, 60-637 Poznan, Poland)

  • Anna Kożuch

    (Department of Forest Resources Management, Faculty of Forestry, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Avenue 29-Listopada 46, 31-425 Krakow, Poland)

  • Marek Wieruszewski

    (Department of Mechanical Wood Technology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland)

  • Roman Gornowicz

    (Department of Forestry Economics and Technology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 28, 60-637 Poznan, Poland)

  • Krzysztof Adamowicz

    (Department of Forestry Economics and Technology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 28, 60-637 Poznan, Poland)

Abstract

Achieving organizational efficiency requires the selection of an appropriate operating model. To date, no objective indicators, methods of measuring, or criteria for evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of forest management organizations have been developed. In the heterogeneous forest management of the European Union (EU), multiple objectives and functions—from production to social and ecological services—coexist at regional and national levels. This study provides an overview of the organizational and legal forms of EU forestry, taking into account environmental conditions, ownership structures, and the role of the forestry sector in national economies. The legal information of EU countries on forest management was verified. We examine the impact of the entity’s organizational and legal form on the implementation of sustainable forest management and the objectives of the New EU Forest Strategy 2030, particularly in terms of absorbing external capital for forest protection and climate-related activities. Joint stock companies, public institutions, and enterprises are the most relevant. The private sector is dominated by individual farms, associations, chambers of commerce, and federations. A clear trend toward transforming state-owned enterprises into joint-stock companies and expanding their operational scope has been confirmed. Multifunctional forest management is practiced in both state and private forests. Economic efficiency, legal and property liability, and organizational goals depend on the chosen organizational and legal form.

Suggested Citation

  • Jarosław Brożek & Anna Kożuch & Marek Wieruszewski & Roman Gornowicz & Krzysztof Adamowicz, 2025. "Characterization and Evaluation of the Organizational and Legal Structures of Forestry in the European Union," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-35, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:13:p:5706-:d:1683879
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