Beautiful sunlit forest with tall trees in Enschede, perfect for nature lovers.

Europe used to be trees, almost all of it

Possibly 80–90% of Europe was once forest. Centuries of cutting and grazing changed that.

Europe the Forest: Then and Now

High-altitude shot of stacked logs in a deforested area, showcasing timber and environmental impact.

What remains

Over a quarter of Europe is still forested, but true natural forest in Western Europe is just 2–3%. Many areas became fast-growing conifer plantations with poorer habitats.

Europe the Forest: Then and Now