Forest Information Billboard

Issue 4, 2025

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UNECE Forest and Bioeconomy Section

Current Highlights

Image: © AI-generated/Liliana Annovazzi-Jakab/Microsoft Copilot (Extended License)
Forest insights Growing Forests, Growing Risks: Key Findings from the UNECE 2025 Forest Profile
 
Forests in the UNECE region - spanning 56 countries across Europe, North America, the Caucasus and Central Asia -cover 1.76 billion hectares, representing 42% of the world’s forest area. The region’s forest area has expanded by 60 million hectares since 1990, and more than 300 million hectares are now under protection.

 

However, climate‑driven disturbances increasingly threaten these hard‑won gains.

 

These findings come from the 2025 Forest Profile for Europe, North America, Caucasus and Central Asia, launched at the 83rd session of the UNECE Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry, on the eve of the UNFCCC COP in Belém - underscoring its timeliness and relevance to the process. 

 

The report has also attracted significant media attention, being referenced in more than 300 articles across 19 languages, with an estimated reach of 552 million. 

 

Find more insights on forests’ performance, challenges, and opportunities across UNECE countries here 

 

Access source data on forests and forest management in the UNECE region here
Image: © AI generated/ Sergign/ stock.adobe.com (Extended License)
Urban action 2025 Trees in Cities Online Summit
 
On 16 December 2025, the first Trees in Cities Summit brought together city leaders, urban forestry experts, and international innovators to share how cities are planting, protecting, and caring for urban trees. 
 
Inspiring case studies from Berlin, Montreal, Reykjavik, and beyond highlighted practical strategies for climate-resilient, inclusive, and nature-rich cities. 

 

Speakers shared lessons from dry cities, community-driven “petite forests,” and innovative urban tree policies, offering fresh ideas to strengthen urban nature everywhere. The Summit demonstrated how collaboration and creativity are shaping the future of thriving urban forests worldwide.

 

Watch the full recording

 

Learn about UNECE urban nature action initiatives

Save the Date

Image: © EFI
23.03.2026 Register Now for the EFI Mediterranean Network Forum 2026

The EFI Mediterranean Network Forum 2026 will bring together forest researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to strengthen collaboration across the Mediterranean over five days in Valencia, Spain. 

For more information: here

UNECE Forest Section

Image: © UNECE
Past events FOREST 2025: 83rd session of the Economic Commission for Europe Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry

The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe held its 83rd Session of the Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry (FOREST 2025) from 4 to 6 November 2025 in Geneva. The session brought together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders from across the UNECE region to review recent developments in the forest sector and set priorities for sustainable forest management. Discussions focused on global dynamics in forest product markets, innovation, and data-driven decision-making, and ongoing work on urban forestry, among other topics. Delegates were also presented with a comprehensive overview of regional forest trends and their critical role in climate regulation and socio-economic development. For more information: here

Image: © UNECE
Past events Petite Forests: The Next Big Thing in Urban Forestry or Just a Trend?

What if a forest could grow ten times faster - in the heart of a city? Proponents of the petite as well as Miyawaki method highlight this potential: an increasingly popular approach to urban forestry that creates dense, biodiverse forests in small spaces, often in just a few years. Delegates to the UNECE Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry enjoyed a crisp morning of sun and mist during a visit to a Miyawaki forest in Geneva, organized with the Global Cities Hub and ArboCityNet. The discussion and site visit explored whether this is a useful approach for the urban forest toolbox. 

Interested in tiny forests? 

Join the UNECE Petite Forest Network: here

Image: © UNECE
Past events Rethinking construction for affordable and sustainable solutions

The event held on 8 October 2025 during the Committee on Urban Development, Housing and Land Management brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to examine how the construction sector can respond to the twin challenges of housing affordability and sustainability. Focusing on modern and modular construction methods and a product-based approach to buildings, discussions highlighted pathways to reduce costs, cut environmental impacts, and accelerate the delivery of quality housing. Showcasing practical examples from the World Resources Forum network, the session emphasized the need for systemic thinking across the building lifecycle. 

For more information: here

Image: © AI-generated/firefly.adobe.com (Extended License)
Past events Monitoring Urban Trees and Forests

On 4 November 2025, Experts met at UNECE to discuss how to better integrate urban forests into and national forest monitoring systems. The session highlighted current potential of technologies such as LiDAR, UAV photogrammetry, AI-based image analysis, and other remote-sensing datasets that make large-scale, accurate inventories of urban trees increasingly feasible. Participants explored methods to harmonize data across scales, and opportunities to link inventories with ecosystem service modelling. The discussion underscored that modern technology is transforming urban trees and forests into measurable infrastructure, marking a significant step forward. 

Register to join the follow-up event in 2026 (dates TBC): here

Image: © UNECE
Past events Strengthening and Greening Inclusive Non-Wood Forest Product Value Chains in the Kyrgyz Republic

Medicinal herbs, wild fruits, mushrooms, and nuts are more than forest products in Kyrgyzstan - they are vital sources of livelihoods for rural communities. In December 2025, the UNECE Forest and Bioeconomy Section and FAO, with national partners, convened a workshop in Bishkek to strengthen sustainable and inclusive non-wood forest product (NWFP) value chains. Bringing together policymakers, researchers, cooperatives, and market actors, the event explored certification, market access, and value addition. Participants jointly shaped elements of a national NWFP roadmap, reinforcing the role of forests in biodiversity conservation, climate action, and resilient rural development, while laying the groundwork for continued collaboration and investment. For more information: here

Image: © UNECE
Past events Strengthening and Greening Inclusive Non-Wood Forest Product Value Chains in Tajikistan

Is pistachio green gold? Could this humble nut boost livelihoods and restore forest cover? These questions were at the heart of discussions during a national workshop on non-wood forest product value chains in Tajikistan in November 2026. The workshop, organized by UNECE and FAO in collaboration with the Forestry Agency under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, explored the significant potential of pistachio and other non-wood forest products. Participants provided valuable input for the development of a national roadmap aimed at unlocking this potential - supporting sustainable forest management, economic opportunities, and rural resilience. Gold or not, it could be the key to a greener future. 

For more information: here

Image: © pornchan, Kalawin/stock.adobe.com (Extended License)
Publications and reports Forest Information Systems for Effective Forest Policy and Management

Forest Information Systems (FIS) improve efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver better data for decision-makers, while also supporting economic development, transparency, and public participation. To help countries develop their own systems, UNECE has produced two publications. A Guide to Creating Effective FISprovides an overview, outlines the various types and functions of FIS, examines their application, and explains how they can strengthen policymaking; A Practical Guide - equips users with the knowledge and tools needed to conduct a pre-analysis for the effective development and national implementation of FIS. 

For more information: here

Image: © helivideo/stock.adobe.com (Extended License)
Publications and reports Fresh Information On Forest Products Markets (2024, 2025 & 2026)

November was the peak season for new information, and data on forest products markets is now published:

  • Seventeen country market statements with national economic and policy trends in 2025 and their impacts on the forest products markets. These reports can be accessed here.
  • Twenty-three countries submitted forecast data on forest product production, trade, and consumption in 2025, along with a forecast into 2026. These forecasts can be accessed here
  • Member States agreed on the COFFI Market Statement. These reports can be accessed here.

The reports can be accessed here

Image: © AI-generated/firefly.adobe.com (Extended License)
Publications and reports UNECE’s New Quick Guide Series: Scaling Urban Forestry with National Policy

UNECE’s new Quick Guide Series shows how governments can scale sustainable urban and peri-urban forestry through national policies and global agreements. 

Drawing on insights from over 600 national plans and reports and shaped by extensive stakeholder interviews and real-world case studies, this Quick Guide Series provides governments, planning authorities, and development partners with practical strategies, a clear framework, and inspirational case studies. From unlocking finance to mobilizing communities, this is your roadmap to greener, healthier, more resilient cities.

For more information: here

Publications, Reports...

Image: © FoRISK
Knowledge hubs FoRISK Intelligence Hub is Now Live!

FoRISK has launched its Intelligence Hub, a free, open-access digital library designed to strengthen forest risk resilience across pan-Europe through knowledge exchange and practical guidance. 

The Hub offers curated resources on windstorms, wildfires, and biotic agents, including guidelines, best practices, technical materials, policy documents, and case studies and is updated through the FoRISK pan-European network. 

For more information: here

Image: © forestknowledge.eu, European Forest Institute
Knowledge hubs Introducing the Forest Knowledge Gateway

The Forest Knowledge Gateway, developed as a joint initiative under the SUPERB (H2020) and TRANSFORMIT (Horizon Europe) projects and led by the European Forest Institute, is a new platform that brings together the latest research, case studies, tools, and guidance to assist forest stakeholders across Europe to reflect current advances in forest restoration and management science and practice. 

For more information: here

Image: © EUFGIS
Knowledge hubs Upgraded EUFGIS Platform Launched

The upgraded EUFGIS platform is now live, offering enhanced datasets, genomic tools, and climate information to support forest genetic resources conservation across Europe. A new webinar recording provides a guided tour of the platform and its expanded services. 

The recording of the joint EUFORGEN–FORGENIUS webinar, held on 16 December 2025, marks both the conclusion of the FORGENIUS project and the start of a new EUFGIS era under EUFORGEN. The session showcased EUFGIS as a service-oriented system supporting monitoring, reporting and coordinated conservation planning across Europe. 

For more information: here

Image: © ec.europa.eu
Newsletters EU Forest Observatory Newsletter - Issue 2

This second issue of the EUFO newsletter keeps readers informed about how EU Forest Observatory (EUFO) is working to monitor and protect forests, both in Europe and around the world.

The EU Forest Observatory is part of the European Union’s efforts to respond to deforestation and forest degradation. 

By using satellite data, in-situ measurements, and scientific analysis, the Observatory aims to provide reliable information that supports better decisions and stronger forest policies and their implementations.

For more information: here

Image: © Ibá
Studies Forest Bioenergy Strengthens Brazil’s Low-Carbon Transition

The publication “Bioenergy from Planted Trees: Green Energy for a Sustainable Future”, launched by Ibá in partnership with EPE, Embrapa, and ABTCP, highlights the growing role of forest bioenergy in Brazil’s energy matrix. Today, it accounts for 12.09% of national energy consumption and 2.69% of electricity use - enough to power all households in the state of Rio de Janeiro for a year. Drawing on resources such as black liquor, wood biomass, and charcoal, forest bioenergy supports key industries and accelerates the shift away from fossil fuels, including in steelmaking, mining, and advanced biofuels. The study shows how Brazil’s leadership in sustainable forestry and bio-based energy underpins a scalable “energy biorefinery,” reinforcing the country’s potential in the global low-carbon economy. For more information: here

Image: © Etifor | Valuing Nature
Studies Gaps and Opportunities for Integrating Payments for Ecosystem Services into the EU Financial Framework

A new report from the LIFE ProForPES project analyses how ecosystem services and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) are reflected in EU policies and financial programs. While the ecosystem services concept is widely embedded in EU policy discourse, stakeholder awareness and on-the-ground engagement remain limited, and funding levels fall short of political ambitions. The analysis highlights uneven support across ecosystem services and fragmented PES terminology. Promising pathways include blended finance, hybrid payment models, and stronger links with emerging frameworks such as the Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF) and Nature Credits, beyond CAP-only approaches.

For more information: here

Image: © Digital Modeling for Sustainable Forest Management I Geographic distribution of precision forestry research based on study area locations, as of January 2025
Studies Precision Forestry Revisited

A recent review titled “Precision Forestry Revisited” has been published as an open-access article in Remote Sensing. Based on an analysis of 210 peer-reviewed publications, the review indicates that precision forestry research has largely focused on forest management and planning, with UAV- and LiDAR-based remote sensing dominating current applications. In contrast, robotics, visualization tools, and real-time control systems remain underutilized within this research domain. The authors highlight that updating forestry school curricula to equip future foresters with digital and analytical competencies will be essential for realizing the full potential of precision forestry in support of sustainable forest management. 

For more information: here 

Image: © Ibá I Brazil’s Minister of the Environment, Marina Silva, receives a copy of the study during COP30
Studies New Study: The Leading Role of Brazilian Forests in the Global Climate Agenda

A study “The Leading Role of Brazilian Forests in the Global Climate Agenda”, developed by a coalition including Ibá (Brazilian Tree Industry), Arapyaú Institute, Itaúsa Institute, Imazon, CEBDS, Amazônia 2030, and other partners, was launched at COP30. The paper underscores the strategic contribution of Brazil’s forests to global climate solutions. It shows that conservation, restoration, and sustainable forestry could add eight million hectares of forests by 2035 - an area equivalent to two times the size of Switzerland - without competing with food production. The findings also reinforce Brazil’s position as a forest and climate powerhouse, vital to global mitigation efforts and ecosystem resilience.

For more information: here 

Image: © Etifor
Guides The National Guidelines for Italy's Voluntary Market of Forest Carbon Credits

Italy’s forests, covering over 10 million hectares, are a strategic resource that offers significant value and services. They absorb CO₂, regulate water cycles, safeguard biodiversity, and create economic opportunities. To leverage these benefits, an interministerial decree signed on 16 October approves the Guidelines for implementing the National Public Registry of Voluntary Carbon Credits. This registry, focused on the agricultural and forestry sectors, establishes the essential criteria, rules, and procedures for the generation, accounting, and certification of carbon credits produced voluntarily by Italy's forestry sector to deliver measurable benefits for climate and biodiversity, attracting corporate investment. 

For more information: here

Image: © WBCSD I Jane Molony (PAMSA), Francisco Ruiz-Tagle (Empresas CMPC), Edie Marriner (WBCSD), Chief Almir Narayamoga Surui
Guides Build Trust, Share Value in The Forest: Guiding Principles for Community Engagement and Development

A newly launched report from the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) Forest Solutions Group offers a guiding business framework to enable companies to go beyond mitigating risk and obtaining a social license to operate - moving instead toward proactively driving shared value.

With the sector’s approach to community engagement and development having evolved over the years, the report offers insights for actors wishing to embed these practices into business success.

For more information: here

Image: © Gabriela Rueda, European Forest Institute
Guides Measuring What Matters - TRANSFORMIT’s 17 Key Indicators for Europe’s Forests

The TRANSFORMIT project has refined 17 key Integrative Forest Management (IFM) indicators into practical fact sheets. Developed collaboratively with forest managers, policymakers, researchers, and communities across seven Living Labs, these indicators make IFM measurable and actionable. 

They cover goals such as biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, carbon storage, water regulation, and provision of ecosystem services. Each fact sheet explains what to measure, relevant data sources, thresholds, and policy links, providing a science-based toolkit to monitor progress, support decisions, and align management with European forest strategies. 

For more information: here

Image: © ResAlliance
Guides Policy Recommendations for Landscape Resilience in the Mediterranean Region

The ResAlliance project has released a White Paper presenting 40 policy recommendations to strengthen landscape resilience across the Mediterranean. Drawing on proven good practices from forests, farmland, and agroforestry systems, the publication highlights the policy changes needed to address wildfires, droughts, floods, and desertification at the landscape scale. 

Structured around key climate impacts, implementation challenges, and targeted policy actions, the White Paper focuses on integrating resilience across sectors, scaling up successful practices, and improving financing through public–social–private partnerships. 

For more information: here 

Image: © Silvia Robertelli
Guides Launch of a Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda for the European Forest-Based Sector

One of the main outputs of the EUFORE project is the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) for the European forest-based sector. Developed through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder co-creation process, SRIA provides a strategic compass for national and European research agendas. In particular, it will inform and be further developed by the forthcoming European Research and Innovation Partnership on Forests and Forestry for a Sustainable Future. SRIA outlines priority areas where scientific excellence and innovation can support evidence-based policymaking, enhance cross-sectoral collaboration, and enable Europe’s forest-based sector to deliver long-term ecological, economic, and social value. 

For more information: here

Image: © Kamusa/Pexels
Guides How can Europe overcome the most critical barriers hindering the scale-up of the European bioeconomy?

The report “Scaling Up Forest-Based Innovations in Europe” presents key recommendations to overcome barriers to scaling up forest-based innovations across five key themes: supportive financial framework; open-access scaling facilities; strategic partnerships; coherent regulation; capacity building and training.

The recommendations aim to guide stakeholder action in driving the green transition of Europe’s main economic sectors. The report was a collaboration between the European Forest Institute - Bioregions Facility and the European Investment Bank.

For more information: here 

Image: © IUFRO
Guides Research Insights by TEAMING UP 4 FORESTS: New Series to Bridge Forest Science and Industry

The TEAMING UP 4 FORESTS platform, initiated by IUFRO and Mondi in 2021, has launched “Research Insights,” a new series of short, accessible research briefs. 

Each RI issue offers a concise “knowledge nugget” that explains what is happening in the forest sector, why it matters for industry, science, and policy, and what actions can be taken. By spotlighting practical recommendations - from adaptive forest management and circular bioeconomy innovations to policy coherence and stakeholder engagement - the series invites all forest stakeholders to turn insight into action. 

For more information: here

Image: © Ibá
Annual reports Ibá Launches 2025 Annual Report

The recently launched Ibá 2025 Annual Report highlights how the industrial and restoration tree sector continues to grow sustainably, innovatively, and in tune with global climate challenges. 

The sector set new records in 2024, with US$15.7 billion in forest product exports, maintaining its position as the world's largest pulp exporter. 

This industry plants, harvests, and replants 10.5 million hectares of trees in degraded areas, while preserving 7 million hectares of native forests. 

For more information: here

Image: © EFI
Factsheets Discover the Innovations That Defined the Bioeconomy Innovation Day 2025

Bioeconomy Innovation Day 2025, held in Catalonia (Spain), brought together innovators, investors, and other key stakeholders to advance bio‑based solutions in three economically significant sectors with strong potential to drive the green transition: construction, manufacturing, and consumer products (including cosmetics and interior design).

A dedicated factsheet booklet was developed for the event, showcasing the participating start-ups and their bio-based innovations, offering a snapshot of the technologies and materials they are bringing to the bioeconomy. 

For more information: here

Image: © Ibá
Factsheets New Edition of the Mosaico Bulletin Provides Insides on the Cultivated Tree Sector in Brazil

The Brazilian cultivated tree sector registered a positive performance from January to September 2025, driven largely by pulp production and exports. 

These findings are featured in the new edition of the Mosaico Bulletin, a quarterly publication by Ibá (Brazilian Tree Industry). 

For more information: here

Image: © Trevor Armel I Indonesia (2022)
Podcasts Circular Economy & Forests: Building Resilience in a Volatile World

Episode 80 of the podcast series “Forests for the Future” explores how circular economy thinking can help meet this challenge of building resilient economic systems. 

Hosted by FSC Circularity Hub, the episode brings together experts from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, industry, and FSC to discuss the role of forests and wood-based value chains in a regenerative, bio-based future. 

The conversation highlights the smarter use of wood, policy gaps, and why collaboration is key to turning circularity into action.

For more information: here 

Image: © IUFRO
Podcasts Branching Out: The Forest Podcast - Get to Know the Scientific Backbone of IUFRO

The second season of the IUFRO podcast takes the audience through the world of IUFRO’s nine Divisions, the backbone of the organization’s scientific work. Listen to Division Co-coordinators as they discuss an integrated approach to the forest environment, answer what makes a healthy forest, and highlight the social dimensions of forests and forestry. 

An episode on forest policy and economics will round off the season.

The Branching Out: The Forest Podcast is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

For more information: here

Image: © Etifor | Valuing Nature
Videos Forest Associations: A Concrete Lever for Sustainable Forest Management in Italy

A new video, developed within the LIFE ClimatePositive project, explains what forest associations are and why they represent a concrete response to current Italian forest management challenges. 

Bringing together public and private owners, local authorities, and citizens helps improve forest management, enhance forest resources, and strengthen local communities. 

For more information: here and here

Image: © INFORMA
Videos INFORMA: Five Forests, One Vision

A new INFORMA video offers a virtual tour of the project's case study areas, featuring insights from experts across five European bioregions and exploring how science, local knowledge, and collaboration are transforming forest management. 

Although conditions differ across regions, the experts agree that science can help shape sustainable forest management practices.

Read more about the INFORMA case study areas: here

Join the virtual tour: here

Forest community

Image: © Jørgen Ødegaard
Surveys Help Strengthen the Traceability of Forest Reproductive Material Across Europe

The OptFORESTS project invites professionals working with forest reproductive material (FRM) to take part in a short survey aimed at strengthening provenance information and traceability across Europe. Recording the origin of seeds, seedlings, and other FRM is essential for matching material to local conditions, protecting genetic diversity, and supporting climate-resilient forests. 

The survey targets actors across the entire FRM value chain and takes only a few minutes to complete. The results will help identify current practices, gaps, and future needs for effective traceability systems.

For more information: here

Image: © Etifor | Valuing Nature
Training WeNaTour E-Learning Course: Nature Therapies and Innovation for Sustainable Tourism – Edition II

This e-Learning Course, developed within the Erasmus+ WeNaTour project, provides core knowledge and practical tools to innovate in sustainable tourism. 

Available from Spring 2026, this free of charge online course includes video lessons, reading materials, quizzes, and interactive activities to support specialization in nature-centered tourism models. 

The course is a part of a broader training offered to students and tourism professionals (18+). 

For more information: here

Image: © emma4eu.eu
Training Massive Open Online Course in Deforestation-Free Supply Chain Management & EUDR Compliance

Developed by EMMA4EU (a project co-funded by the European Commission), this course combines education, research, and knowledge exchange to raise awareness and build capacity in sustainable supply chains. Divided into seven modules and designed in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research, the course provides knowledge and practical tools to navigate the challenges of implementing the European Regulation on Deforestation-free Products (EUDR) and achieving deforestation-free supply chains. Through real-world examples and interactive learning, participants can explore how businesses can align sustainability commitments with compliance requirements.

For more information: here

Image: © INFRO
Projects Modelling The Material Wood Flow from Finished Products to Forest Land

As part of the Wood Resource Monitoring initiative, material flows up to the semi-finished wood products level have been modelled. 

This work now integrates the finished products level using the TRAW model - a tool for analyzing circular economy dynamics. 

The project simulates the effects of increased efficiency, material substitution, and increased recycling, quantifying these measures along the value-added chain of finished product sectors. 

For more information: here

Image: © TAXUS IT
Projects SILVA NYMPHA - Sustainable Use and Smart Management of Forests Picture

The SILVA NYMPHA project is developing an innovative digital forest twin to support advanced forest management. Building on proven management approaches and sustainable forest‑monitoring strategies, the project integrates state‑of‑the‑art AI‑based solutions to create multi‑sensor monitoring and management platforms capable of early diagnosis of biotic and abiotic threats.These tools will enable stakeholders to assess, predict, and manage risks more effectively, strengthening the long‑term sustainability of forest management and contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the European Green Deal, and the New EU Forest Strategy.

For more information: here

Image: © ResAlliance
Projects ResAlliance: Three Years of Building Landscape Resilience Across the Mediterranean

After three years of collaboration and action, the ResAlliance project has concluded its work to strengthen landscape resilience across agriculture and forestry. 

Through five regional “LandLabs” and a wider network of practitioners, the project demonstrated how local engagement, shared learning, and innovation help landscapes cope with climate pressures such as drought, wildfire, and land degradation. By connecting farmers, forest managers, researchers, and authorities, ResAlliance turned shared challenges into shared solutions that will continue to support landscapes beyond the project’s lifetime. 

For more information: here

Image: © EFI / HoliSoils
Projects HoliSoils: Delivering a Lasting Legacy for Europe’s Forest Soils

Although the HoliSoils project officially concluded in October 2025, its results continue to support forest soil science and practice across Europe. Over four and a half years, the project delivered new data, models, management approaches, and monitoring insights aligned with climate and sustainability goals. 

All outputs are now brought together in the HoliSoils Legacy Hub - offering open access to datasets, tools, policy briefs, factsheets, educational materials, webinars, and videos. 

For more information: here 

Image: © EFI
Projects MEDFORGEN Project to Strengthen Forest Genetic Conservation Across the Mediterranean

MEDFORGEN is a new four-year initiative coordinated by the EFI Mediterranean Facility (EFIMED) to strengthen the conservation of forest genetic resources across the Mediterranean. Working with ten countries in the EU Southern Neighbourhood, the project will identify genetic conservation units, promote the use of forest reproductive material in restoration, and develop tailored conservation roadmaps. Building on the long-standing expertise of the EUFORGEN programme, MEDFORGEN will foster collaboration, capacity building and knowledge exchange to safeguard genetic diversity and support climate-resilient Mediterranean forests. 

For more information: here

Image: © FAO/Adem Bilgin
Projects Forest Restoration Improvement for Environmental Development and Sustainability in Central Asia (FRIENDS project)

The FRIENDS project addresses severe forest degradation across the Caucasus and Central Asia by developing national capacities for large-scale restoration and enhancing local know-how to prevent further degradation. 

Key interventions include using income-generating species for community-based restoration in Kitab, Uzbekistan; dryland and post-fire restoration in Azerbaijan; sowing black saxaul seeds on degraded soils in Kazakhstan; planting of coniferous species to prevent erosion and enhance ecological stability in Ton district, Kyrgyzstan.

For more information: here

Image: © PEFC
Elections PEFC Board Elections 2025

At its 33rd General Assembly, PEFC elected new and returning members to its International Board, strengthening the organisation’s global leadership. 

The new Board brings together diverse regional perspectives and deep expertise in sustainable forest management, certification, finance and governance. 

For more information: here 

Image: © FAO/Aurelie Shapiro
Collaborations Norway and FAO Reinforce Support for Global Forest Observations Initiative

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the government of Norway have signed a new agreement to support FAO in continuing to host the office of the Global Forest Observations Initiative, providing a collaborative platform to advance forest monitoring worldwide. 

The agreement will enable the GFOI Office to continue coordinating international work on the development and use of national forest monitoring systems in tropical forest countries.

For more information: here

Image: © FSC/Samora Chapman
Activities Through FSC-certified bush harvesting, Namibia is restoring degraded landscapes, powering the grid and creating green jobs

In response to widespread bush encroachment, Namibia is building its first bush biomass power plant - fuelled by FSC-certified woodchips. 

What was once a pressing environmental challenge is now becoming an opportunity for ecosystem restoration, renewable energy, and rural job creation. 

For more information: here 

Image: © Viktor Lienhard | Zurich, Switzerland (2025)
Activities Growing Knowledge: Forest Education Across Europe

Various innovative programmes are bringing forestry education into the classroom: from a simulation game for Swiss universities, and co-designed learning materials in Finnish forestry schools, to interactive forest knowledge toolboxes for Croatian high schools, and education resources for UK primary and secondary schools.

Knowledge about responsible and sustainable forest management under this new and more engaging light aims at shaping a new generation of forest-conscious citizens and professionals. 

For more information: here

Image: © Jonathan Perugia | Maramureș, Romania (2021)
Activities Safeguarding Primary forests in Romania

Primary and old‑growth forests are vital for climate stability, storing large amounts of carbon in their plants and in soils. They also form an irreplaceable part of natural heritage, shaping the cultural identities of local communities and holding immense intrinsic value. There is a crucial need for comprehensive awareness and information about endangered primary forests, with a focus on European and national policies. 

Romania is a notable example that has pioneered effective measures to protect its primary and old growth forests. 

For more information: here

Image: © University of Castilla-La Mancha
Projects WOOD4LIFE: Monitoring Experimental Forest Management in Spain and Italy

WOOD4LIFE is a European project that promotes sustainable forest management and the use of durable wood products as a climate change mitigation strategy. Through innovation, interregional cooperation, and local commitment, the project seeks to revive the forest value chains in Spain and Italy.

Under this initiative, the WOOD4LIFE partner, the University of Castilla-La Mancha has recently conducted a new monitoring campaign assessing positive impacts on ecosystem services in experimental plots within the Alto Tajo Natural Park and the Serranía de Cuenca. The campaign evaluated thinning intensities in Pinus nigra and Pinus sylvestris forests. 

For more information: here

Past Events

Image: © Ibá
COP30 Ibá and Brazil’s Forest Sector Showcase Leadership at COP30

At COP30, Ibá and the Brazilian forest-based sector maintained a strong institutional presence, reaffirming their commitment to climate action and Brazil’s leadership in nature-based solutions. Through panels and technical debates, the sector highlighted key themes including decarbonization, restoration, bioeconomy, circularity, and forest‑based products. 

The delegation also launched the report “Brazil’s Forest Sector for the Climate”, showcasing the sectors’ contributions to mitigation, renewable energy and large-scale restoration, and premiered a documentary “New Roots - Choices for the Future”.

 For more information: here  

Image: © PEFC
COP30 COP30 Reflections: What Belém Revealed About the Future of Forests - and PEFC’s Place in It

At COP30, PEFC contributed to several sessions highlighting coherently the links between sustainable forest management, economic transition, and climate commitments. 

From timber in construction to restoration, decent work and natural-capital accounting, discussions highlighted the need for trusted assurance, local ownership and demonstrable outcomes, which is a direction closely aligned with the PEFC model. 

For more information: here

Image: © Celio Cavalcante I Brazil (2021)
COP30 Forest Stewardship Council Signs Joint Action Agenda Letter at COP30

At COP30 in Belém, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) signed a joint Action Agenda letter with over 132 organizations urging negotiators to move from commitments to implementation.

The letter, presented to world leaders, emphasizes a “coalitions of doers” – including governments, businesses, civil society, and indigenous groups - working together to scale proven solutions. 

For more information: here

Image: © EFIMED
Past training (05.05.2025) EFI Young Leadership Programme 2025: Breaking Stereotypes in the Forest Sector

The EFI Young Leadership Programme - Mediterranean 2025 gathered 17 participants in Croatia for a week of seminars on building forest resilience through climate- and biodiversity-smart management. 

Alongside scientific learning, the programme focused on developing complementary skills in communication, storytelling and filmmaking, celebrating the diversity and creativity shaping the future of forestry.

For more information: here

Image: © laurusnetwork.eu
Webinar (17.09.2025) Laurus Network First Webinar on Voluntary Carbon Market and Land Use Carbon Projects in Europe

A new European initiative to strengthen forest owners’ organizations was launched through the Laurus Network, with its first webinar held on 17 September 2025. 

The session provided an overview of how forest owners and land managers can utilize carbon markets and presented real-world examples of carbon projects aiming to inspire European small forest owners. Other topics included opportunities in voluntary carbon markets, essential requirements for developing carbon projects, and the associated revenue potential and risks. 

For more information: here

Image: © FAO
Webinar (24.09.2025) Forest and Farm Producer Organizations as Key Change Agents for Climate-Resilient Landscapes and Improved Livelihoods

Held on 24 September 2025, this FAO webinar explored how forest and farm producer organizations (FFPO) influence and shape national and subnational policies and legal frameworks to create supportive environments for their members and promote sustainable land management. 

The discussion focused on process and highlighted the importance of clear, member-approved advocacy agendas in FFPOs. Speakers shared their experiences in conducting needs assessments, consolidating members’ opinions, and formalizing advocacy priorities through inclusive processes. 

For more information: here

Image: © FAO
Webinar (30.09.2025) Accelerating Inclusive Agrifood System: Sustainable Use of Forest Products Beyond Wood

On 30 September 2025, the FAO held the fourth webinar of its global series on sustainable forest-based bioeconomy approaches. 

The session explored how these approaches can transform agrifood systems by emphasizing social sustainability, equitable benefit-sharing, and improved livelihoods. Discussions focused on how forest goods and services drive innovation in food, cosmetics, bioplastics, and ecotourism. 

For more information: here

Image: © Santiago Alarcón Ceballos
Workshop (07.10.2025) When Fire Meets Ice: Iceland’s Unexpected Wildfire Challenge

From October 7–9 2025, FoRISK experts joined the Icelandic Civil Protection and fire brigades for a wildfire management workshop in Selfoss. 

The training combined field exercises, live-fire practice, and technical sessions on fireline safety, fire behaviour, and proactive fire use.

For more information: here 

Image: © Ibá
Annual meeting (2025) Ibá Organized an Annual Meeting with AFCP and Associated Companies

Ibá recently organized an annual lunch with its Argentine counterpart, the AFCP (Association of Pulp and Paper Manufacturers), together with leaders of associated companies. The meeting facilitated a productive discussion on the political and economic situation in both countries. The AFCP was represented by its new president, while Ibá was represented by its Director of International Relations. Representatives from Ibema, Sylvamo, and Suzano also attended. The meeting forms part of the strategy to strengthen relations with the Argentine association and other neighbouring countries, continuing the dialogue initiated in 2023 with the AFCP in Buenos Aires. For more information: here

Image: © iscevent2025.com
Conference (22.10.2025) The 73rd edition of the International Softwood Conference

Held in October 2025 in Oslo, the 73rd edition of the International Softwood Conference provided an opportunity to examine current timber market trends, with a particular focus on facts and figures for softwood production and consumption worldwide. 

For more information: here

Image: © EUFORGEN
Webinar (06.11.2025) Detecting Genetic Decline

The EUFORGEN–OptFORESTS webinar series in November 2025 explored how genetic decline in forests can be detected and addressed through science, management, and breeding.

Bringing together more than 70 participants each day, the two sessions linked theory with practice, from genetic indicators and assisted gene flow to climate-smart breeding and ex situ conservation. 

For more information: here

Image: © Anat art/ Adobe Stock
Webinar (04.11.2025) From Nature Restoration to National Restoration Plans – What Support Can the Latest Science Offer?

The ThinkForest / SUPERB webinar on 4 November explored how research and practice can help turn the European Union Nature Restoration Regulation into action. 

For more information: here

Image: © EFI
Webinar (26.11.2025) Bridging and Diversifying Knowledge for Resilient Forests

On 26 November 2025, TRANSFORMIT and SUPERB hosted a joint webinar. "A dynamic panel discussion tackled two core questions: how scientific, practical, indigenous, and policy knowledge can become more accessible and actionable, and how bridging these perspectives can strengthen biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management.

Speakers emphasized the importance of trust, multi-perspective approaches, and stronger links between knowledge, policy, and investment decisions. 

For more information: here