In analysing the development and achievements of Polish forestry and forest industries over the last four decades, it is necessary to take into consideration the situation prevailing after the end of the Second World War, when these sectors of the national economy were starting their activities. First of all, it is necessary to consider the effects of the war such as: (a) the harvesting from the forests of the present Polish territory of 3 about 200 million m of merchantable wood, which is equal to the normal harvest over a l2-year period; (b) the destruction of over half the woodworking industrial potential. In consequence, the forested area inside the new Polish boundaries amounted 40 years ago only to 20.8 per cent of the whole area of the country. There has been a continuing process of increasing the forested area of the country (although at a diminishing rate). In 1986 the forest area amounted to 27.7 per cent of the land surface, that is to 8.7 million ha, an increase of over 2 million ha in 40 years. Intensive afforestation, performed regardless of the ownership category of the land by the State forest service, was aimed primarily at making good the losses in the forested area and the rational use of land not fit for agricultural purposes.

This study, prepared jointly by FAO and UNECE, sets out data on long term trends and projections for future developments in the forestry sector for 38 countries in western and eastern Europe (including the three Baltic states and four major CIS countries including Russia) covering the years 1960 to 2020. It is based on scientific analysis and covers forest resources, and the production, trade and consumption of roundwood, sawnwood, panels, pulp and paper; as well as the outlook for non-wood products and forest services. It also examines the links with other sectoral policies, such as energy, environmental, trade and rural development policies, and sets out a number of policy conclusions and recommendations.

Presents industry reviews including a section of "trends and forecasts," complete with tables and graphs for industry analysis.

This report provides analysis of long-range trends in paper recycling and impacts on the timber outlook for the 1993 RPA Assessment Update. Paper recycling is projected to increase substantially in the next decade, followed by more gradual increases in subsequent decades. Increased recycling will extend timber resources and fiber supply.