LocationsForests as the capital of the future
March 21, 2026
Author: Rakhat Zheniskhanov
Project Analyst, UNDP Kazakhstan
While working as a forestry inspector, I often head into the forest early in the morning. At that hour, mist slowly rises among the pines, and the air is filled with the rich scent of resin and damp earth. In moments like these, you can truly feel the quiet strength and living presence of the forest. To me, a forest is not just an abstract ecosystem or a dry line in government statistics. It is a living system that protects the land from winds and droughts, preserves moisture, and sustains soil fertility. In many ways, the forest acts as a natural shield - safeguarding the land and maintaining the balance of the surrounding environment.
The economic role of forests is traditionally associated with timber production. The forest sector covers logging, wood processing, making construction materials, furniture, paper, and developing bioenergy. Processing wood more deeply is especially important because it adds value to forest products and helps diversify the economy. But forests offer much more than just timber. Products like berries, mushrooms, medicinal plants, honey, and other wild resources are also important. In rural areas, these activities give people extra income and help small businesses grow. When there are few other options, forest resources help local communities stay strong.
However, the economic potential of forests goes far beyond timber. Non-timber forest products such as berries, mushrooms, medicinal plants, honey, and other wild resources play a significant role. In rural areas, these activities provide additional sources of income and create opportunities for small business development. Where economic alternatives are limited, forest resources help sustain the resilience of local communities.
Forests are important for more than just jobs and the economy. They play a much bigger role in keeping natural systems stable and supporting people’s well-being. This is even clearer as climate change speeds up. Forests are a key way to move toward a low-carbon future. They absorb carbon from the air, which helps lower greenhouse gas emissions. Restoring damaged land also makes natural areas stronger. Managing forests in a sustainable way lets countries join international carbon mechanisms and develop bioenergy.
These global trends matter a lot for Kazakhstan. The country covers 272.5 million hectares, and 31.4 million hectares are considered forest fund, which is about 11.5 percent of the land as of 1 January 2025. Forests actually cover 13.9 million hectares, or about 5.1 percent. This means Kazakhstan has low forest cover, so protecting and restoring forests is very important.
National forest policy is increasingly focused on strengthening the ecological functions of forests - water protection, climate regulation, soil conservation, and sanitary and hygienic functions. The Forest Code has reinforced the national significance of forests and introduced stricter regulations on economic activities across large areas. Measures have included expanding protected forest areas, reducing allowable cut levels, strengthening fire safety requirements, and introducing mandatory reforestation obligations. These steps aim to reduce human pressure and preserve the ecological potential of forest resources.
As of January 2025, 761.100 hectares have been allocated for long-term forest use, representing about 5.48 percent of forest-covered land. At the same time, the share of exploitable forests has declined significantly compared to previous periods, reflecting a shift towards more sustainable forest management practices.
Forests are key to sustainable development. They are much more than just a natural resource. Investing in sustainable forest management, restoration, modern monitoring, and fire prevention helps keep the economy stable, protects biodiversity, and supports future generations.
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