Spatial and temporal changes in some indicators of Hungarian forest management

The use of forests, a versatile multi-purpose forestry sector can only be maintained through the achievement of significant quality standards required by the increased 21st-century environmental, social and economic needs. Nowadays it is a favourable condition that Hungary is a member of the European Union and, consequently, the country can apply for EU funds in the field of forest management. Unfortunately, the approximately 14 years before the accession were not without problems in this area either.In the forest management of Hungary some economic difficulties and privatization issues have emerged since the regime change, which made it difficult slowing down the dynamic development of forest management. However, since the regime change this sector recovered within a few years and the development started, with the result that now the Hungarian forest area reached 1 935.8 thousand hectares. Nevertheless, Hungary is still one of the countries in the European Union having less favourable indicators for the forest cover. Over the past 24 years there was a growing tendency regarding forest areas. Compared to 1990, the Hungarian forest area increased by 14.2% in 2014. It is expected to keep growing in the future as well in case forestation and deforestation (forestation and felling) will ...