Introduction

Global climate change is one of the great concerns of our times and must be viewed as a mega-trend that will shape a future society.  It is currently rated as the most significant global phenomenon that present a material risk to the world as we know it. There is consensus that solutions for adaptation will be complex, and will most definitely require an inter-disciplinary approach, through the skilful integration of elements of the business, social and biophysical environments.  

The forestry industry will be particularly vulnerable due to the long-term nature of plantation working cycles.  However, this industry also has the potential to play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of a changing climate through the creation of climate-smart, resilient landscapes.  It is important to note that a changing environment will bring many associated entrepreneurial opportunities forming part of the green economy with many new employment opportunities for young forestry graduates.

This website emanated from the European Union funded Forest21 project.  The site includes materials and academic challenges that will assist you to understand the principles behind climate change, how climate change affects forestry, and what type of response from forest managers and scientists are required.

A general section dealing with Climate Change and a more specific one dealing with Climate-smart Forestry in South Africa are included.  The materials are specifically chosen for forestry students at South African universities but can be useful for others too. 

The purpose of this website is to guide learners to a comprehensive understanding of climate change and the anticipated impacts on the global natural environment and socio-economy.  We trust that it will be viewed as a valuable resource for the training of students with a keen interest in sustainable forest management and the general well-being of the global society.