According to him, forests are not simply a natural resource, but a complex and self-regulating ecosystem. Its importance extends far beyond national borders.
“Forests absorb and store carbon, playing a key role in mitigating climate change. They regulate water systems, protect soils from erosion and improve air quality,” Martirosyan said.
Ecosystem and economy
Today, forests cover almost 10 million hectares in Belarus. That area has increased by one million hectares in the last 30 years, or one hectare per capita, which is double the average global growth rate, according to the UNDP.
Armen Martirosyan, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Belarus.
Forest ecosystems play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, providing habitats for thousands of plant and animal species. Their economic contribution is equally significant: they employ some 40,000 people in the forestry sector and wood products account for 8.4 percent of exports. Non-timber forest products, such as berries, mushrooms and medicinal plants, are also important.
Forests also provide key spaces for recreation and tourism, creating new opportunities for small businesses and employment in the regions.
“Ecotourism is becoming a priority in Belarus,” Martirosyan said. “Forests offer local communities opportunities to create jobs, develop small businesses and design educational ecological trails for residents and visitors alike.”
Emerging threats
However, forest ecosystems face increasing threats, mainly related to the impacts of climate change.
One of the most serious challenges remains forest fires. Martirosyan highlighted that this is directly related to rising temperatures, shorter frost periods, changes in precipitation patterns and intensity, as well as the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. According to experts, since the start of the 2025 fire season, more than 700 fires have been recorded in Belarus that have affected more than 1,200 hectares of forest, almost double the number of the previous year.
Coniferous forests, which predominate in Belarus, are particularly vulnerable, as fires can cause serious damage to biodiversity and destroy entire ecosystems, he warned.
“Forest pests are another serious challenge,” he said, pointing to an increase in recent years in insects such as bark beetles and sawflies, which is also linked to climate warming and reduced resilience of forest ecosystems.
Forest fire in Belarus.
UNDP support
In cooperation with the Ministry of Forestry of Belarus for many years, UNDP is helping to introduce modern approaches to forest management and UN agency experts have developed recommendations for updating legislation in this field.
In 2025, proposals were prepared on the use of digital technologies and innovative methods for forest inventory, protection and conservation along with more effective fire management. In February 2026, with the support of the UN, a national strategy and action plan for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity was adopted in Belarus.
Last year, a new project was launched to strengthen preparedness for fire prevention and response. It is the first project implemented by UNDP in Belarus with the financial support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China within the framework of South-South cooperation. Another project focuses on the development of ecotourism and is being implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Natural Resources and with the support of the Russian Federation.
“Ecotourism creates new sources of income for local communities and at the same time supports protected areas,” explained the UNDP representative, adding that the project helps develop ecotourism infrastructure, create new routes and services and train specialists who work in Belarus’ nature reserves.
“A forest is a living organism. It must be treated not simply as a resource, but as part of our shared reality, on which our future depends.”
Firefighting personnel and equipment are inspected in preparation for the fire season in Belarus.
Three steps to protect forests
Joint efforts with partners at international, national and local levels help build a systematic approach to forest management, ensure sustainable outcomes and preserve forests for future generations, said UNDP’s Mr. Martirosyan, emphasizing that protecting forests requires focusing on three key areas.
- the use of innovation and digital technologies to monitor forest conditions and detect threats early
- Strengthen alliances between the government, international organizations and local communities.
- Education and environmental awareness, especially among young people.