Nordic, Baltic, and Austrian forest industry groups are urging the EU to adopt more flexible land-use (LULUCF) climate targets. They want indicative targets based on each member state's own assessments and projections, rather than rigid obligations. The groups argue that active forest management and long-term investments need flexibility because natural carbon sinks are inherently variable and not fully under human control. The industry also insists that the Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF) must stay voluntary and not become mandatory. They say predictable, practical, and science-based rules are needed for businesses and investors making long-term decisions. The groups point out that EU fossil emissions are roughly 15 times larger than the bloc's current carbon sink, and that renewable forest-based materials can replace fossil-intensive alternatives in construction, packaging, and energy.
