Influences of EU forests on weather patterns: Final report

The report provides an assessment of the influences of forests in the European Union (EU) on weather and climate, with a particular focus on precipitation (i.e., rainfall), and identifying benefits that could arise as a result of increased forest cover. A literature review of the influences of forests worldwide on weather and climate is presented. Then, datasets which provide estimates of historical changes in Europe’s forest cover and weather are identified and assessed. Finally, the influence of forests on weather-related phenomena including storms, forest fires, flooding, soil stability, water quality and quantity is summarized and numerical weather prediction and climate models simulated and quantified the impact of forest cover change on local and regional weather and climate in seven locations around Europe.