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Tallinn, Estonia – A new exhibition, “For the Forest to Endure” (Et mets püsiks!), opened today at Ülemiste Centre in Tallinn, marking the first time Estonia has hosted a public display dedicated to continuous cover forestry. This approach to forest management prioritizes maintaining forest cover, eschewing the widespread practice of clear-cutting and is gaining attention as a sustainable alternative.

The exhibition aims to bridge the gap between scientific understanding of forest ecosystems and public perception of logging practices. Organized by the Estonian Fund for Nature, the display combines historical artwork with contemporary data, illustrating the benefits of continuous cover forestry in preserving biodiversity, sequestering carbon, and ensuring long-term forest resilience. The initiative comes as Estonia, like many nations, seeks to balance economic interests with environmental stewardship in its forestry policies.

Silvia Lotman, a Member of the Board of the Estonian Fund for Nature, explained that a common association with forest logging is the image of clear-cutting and deforestation. “With this exhibition, we want to demonstrate that there is another path – one where the forest remains a forest, biodiversity is preserved, and the forest owner also receives income,” Lotman stated. “The forest landscapes of classical artists help us understand how deeply the forest is rooted in the identity of Estonians.”

Continuous cover forestry isn’t simply a different management technique, but a fundamental shift in perspective, according to Rainer Kuuba, a long-time practitioner of the method. “Continuous cover forestry is not merely one method of management – This proves a way of thinking that allows us to live together with the forest rather than exploit it,” Kuuba said at the exhibition opening. “A continuous forest will create it possible for our children and grandchildren to harvest timber regularly and sustainably.”

Balancing Economic and Environmental Goals

Estonia’s forest policy already supports a balance between environmental objectives and economic interests, and continuous cover forestry represents a potential avenue for further diversification, according to Antti Tooming, Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Climate. “Continuous cover forestry is one way to diversify forest management methods, which is why it is important to pilot it on a scientific basis,” Tooming explained. “This requires research to assess continuous forest management practices, including harvesting methods and natural forest regeneration.”

The Ministry of Climate announced that, beginning July 1, the Environmental Investment Centre will offer support for the preparation of forest management plans utilizing continuous forestry principles, allowing landowners to test the method on their properties. This financial support is intended to encourage wider adoption and facilitate research into the effectiveness of the approach.

A Unique Blend of Art and Science

Guido Pärnits, Head of Ülemiste Centre, highlighted the alignment between the values of the Estonian Fund for Nature and the centre itself. “Sustainable forest management and conscious environmental stewardship are themes through which we can value and preserve Estonia’s environment and nature – in other words, support precisely those directions that are also key values of Ülemiste Centre,” Pärnits emphasized. He noted the exhibition’s location within the busy Ülemiste Centre provides an ideal opportunity to reach a broad audience and raise awareness about sustainable forestry practices.

The exhibition’s curator, Rael Artel, carefully selected works by classic Estonian artists to create a connection between cultural heritage and the importance of forest conservation. These artistic representations serve as a visual reminder of the deep-rooted connection between Estonians and their forests.

The exhibition will be open to the public in the atrium on the second floor of Ülemiste Centre until the end of August, offering a unique opportunity to learn about continuous cover forestry and its potential benefits. The display was prepared on the initiative of the Estonian Fund for Nature with the support of Ülemiste Centre.

Looking ahead, the success of pilot programs and the availability of financial support through the Environmental Investment Centre will be key factors in determining the future of continuous cover forestry in Estonia. The exhibition represents a significant step towards fostering a more sustainable and ecologically sound approach to forest management, one that prioritizes the long-term health of Estonia’s vital forest ecosystems.

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