Forests are not static landscapes. They are living systems gradually adapting to a changing climate. At the centre of this transformation is natural selection, the process that determines which trees survive, thrive or disappear. In a recent EUFORGEN webinar, in collaboration with OptFORESTS and followed by 150 participants, senior scientist and geneticist François Lefèvre (INRAE, France) explored how this often-overlooked force is shaping the future of our forests.

Lefèvre, OptFORESTS WP4 leader on "Forest management and genetic diversity", explained that trees possess remarkable adaptive potential. Their high genetic diversity and long lifespans allow them to respond to environmental pressures in complex and gradual ways. Factors such as drought, shifting disturbance regimes and forestry practices influence which trees are favoured by selection. However, Lefèvre emphasised that adaptation alone is not enough. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions remains a fundamental priority.

He presented modelling studies showing how forest practices like thinning can encourage adaptation without exhausting genetic diversity. Evolution in trees often acts through recombination of existing traits, rather than waiting for new mutations. This makes it a subtle but powerful mechanism. The concept of "evolution-oriented forestry" is based on this understanding, treating natural selection as a partner in building forest resilience.

To support this approach, new simulation tools are helping researchers and forest managers explore how trees may respond to future challenges such as prolonged drought or increased disturbance. According to Lefèvre, these tools enable forest planning that works with natural processes, not against them.

The key takeaway from the webinar was clear. Forest managers are not just maintaining forests. They are shaping their future as stewards of genetic diversity and resilience in the face of climate change.

List of references cited in the webinar presentation – Download document (PDF)