As of August 1, 2023, the Flemish government has managed to replant just over 1,127 hectares of forest, which accounts for less than a third of its final target. Flemish Environment Minister,

Zuhal Demir, had pledged to create 4,000 hectares of forest in Flanders by the end of 2024. However, despite witnessing a net increase in forested areas between 2019 and 2021 after decades of decline, reaching the long-term goal appears increasingly challenging, according to Mieke Schauvliege, a member of the opposition party Groen (Flemish Greens), who emphasizes that current efforts are insufficient.

Since 2019, approximately 1,127.8 hectares of forest have been added, representing just over 28% of the intended target. Projections indicate an additional 517 hectares will be planted by the end of the government's term, reaching about 41% of the 4,000-hectare goal. However, Groen argues that even this target will likely not be met, as the government has contributed just over 603 hectares so far, with another 427 hectares in the pipeline.

Notably, only government agencies under Minister Demir's jurisdiction have undertaken forest replantation efforts, led by the Nature and Forestry Agency and the Flemish Land Agency. While the available land and reforestation commitments offer potential progress for the next planting season, Schauvliege alleges that "Demir's ministerial colleagues refuse to offer 'their' space" for these initiatives.

Meanwhile, Flanders continues to lose over 200 hectares of forest annually. Schauvliege urges that the government not only focuses on tree planting but also takes more proactive measures to protect existing forests.

In response to the slow progress, Minister Demir calls on municipalities, nature associations, and private landowners to participate actively in planting additional forests during the upcoming planting season. She also urges the Flemish Parliament to eliminate obstacles that hinder the creation of new forested areas.