High-severity wildfires threaten global timber production, which generates ~US$1.5 trillion annually. This study combines global maps of logging activity and wildfires to assess timber-producing forest loss (2001-2021). 18.5–24.7 million hectares experienced stand-replacing wildfires, with significant burning in the western USA, Canada, Siberia, Brazil, and Australia. Annual burned area increased significantly throughout the 21st century, highlighting substantial wildfire-driven timber losses under climate change. New management strategies and technologies are needed to meet future timber demand.

Christopher G. Bousfield, David B. Lindenmayer, David P. Edwards