In 2018, 50,000 ha were affected by forest damage, this year an even larger extent is anticipated, as concerned parties and scientists informed at a press conference in Prague. There is a need for action in order to protect stands - or else, future damage is inevitable. Damages could amount to up to CZK 500 billion (€19 bn.) which is more than a third of the state budget.
Conference participants demanded joint action together with politics, financial support for afforestation measures as well as legislative amendments, silvarium.dz reports. Furthermore, the importance of forests for air and water quality was emphasized.
