Cork oak forests under threat

The Western Mediterranean’s cork oak forests could be facing decimation over the next decade, according to a new report from conservation group WWF. The ‘Cork Screwed?’ publication, released on the eve of the International Wines and Spirits Fair in London, highlights the potential effects of the industry moving away from cork stoppers to synthetic alternatives. The key concerns are that the forests would be put at a heightened risk of desertification and forest fires.

The decline of the forests could also result in the loss of 62,500 jobs across cork-producing regions, while the scenario would also put further pressure on endangered species such as the Iberian Lynx and Imperial Iberian Eagle.

“The cork oak forests could face an economic and environmental crisis unless we take action to secure their future now. It is vital that the wine and cork industries maintain the market for cork stoppers and in turn, help ensure the survival of the cork oak forests," Rebecca May, forests campaigner at WWF told wwf.org.uk.

Nora Berrahmouni, co-ordinator of WWF Cork Oak Landscapes Programme, added: "A whole landscape, which has environmental as well as economic importance for the Western Mediterranean is at risk. We need to take action now so we don't lose this unique landscape forever."