Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The Council of the European Union has adopted new regulations to improve the quality, availability, and traceability of forest reproductive material (FRM), such as seeds and plants, which are essential for forest regeneration in the EU. These rules also aim to support innovation and competitiveness within the EU seed sector.
According to the press release, the regulation is designed to strengthen the resilience of Europe’s forests to climate change, pests, and diseases, while promoting biodiversity, sustainable forest management, and the conservation of genetic resources. The new rules require that only approved and certified seeds and plants are marketed, enhancing quality and sustainability for planting purposes.
The legislation introduces stronger traceability measures for tracking seeds and seedlings within the EU. It also encourages the use of planting material that is climate-resilient and pest-resistant. To aid implementation, the regulation establishes a simpler and more harmonised system of controls across member states.
The regulation awaits formal approval by the European Parliament. Its implementation is set for five years after adoption to allow member states to transition from more than 25 years of national practices and establish the new control system.
Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of the Republic of Cyprus, emphasized the decision as a key step toward more resilient and sustainable forests in Europe.