Innovating Europe's Forests for a Resilient Future: conclusions from the 6th Forest Innovation Workshop
Collaborative, science-driven solutions play a pivotal role in addressing the multifaceted challenges facing European forestry, concluded the 6th Forest Innovation Workshop of 11-12 February 2025 (Brussels, Belgium).
Image by OptFor-EU/IEECP
By adapting strategies to local conditions, ensuring effective knowledge transfer, overcoming barriers to innovation, and fostering robust partnerships, we can secure the sustainable management of our forests while cultivating a stronger connection between society and nature. These combined efforts are key to building a more resilient, prosperous, and secure Europe for future generations.
The workshop convened over 200 leading researchers, policymakers and stakeholders, including 55 speakers, 13 EU-funded projects, and 14 EIP-AGRI Operational Groups to discuss innovative strategies for sustainable forest management in Europe. It was organised by the Horizon OptFor-EU and FOREST4EU projects, the ERIAFF network, the European Forest Institute (EFI) and other key partners.
The event provided a platform for an in-depth exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing European forests. It highlighted the OptFor-EU project's progress in developing a Decision Support System for climate resilience and carbon sequestration, while breakout sessions facilitated practical knowledge exchange on decision support tools and restoration strategies.
Panel discussions addressed balancing wood demand with environmental sustainability through diversified species, climate adaptation, and improved policy integration.
The EUFORE project investigated innovation within the forestry sector by identifying barriers and solutions and exploring open innovation ecosystems.
The Regional Authorities Roundtable further explored regional priorities and supportive frameworks for innovation. This culminated in a call for enhanced collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and forest managers to ensure the adoption of innovative solutions for a resilient and sustainable European forestry future.
Author: IEECP