New OptFORESTS publication explores who shapes Europe’s forest genetic resources
Mapping forest stakeholders across Europe highlights conflicts and cooperation in conserving genetic diversity, managing reproductive material, and protecting forests under varying governance frameworks.
A new publication from the OptFORESTS team maps out the complex landscape of stakeholders involved in managing Europe’s forest genetic resources (FGR) and forest reproductive material (FRM).
Using a participatory and systems-thinking approach, the study identifies over 50 types of actors, including researchers, forest managers, policymakers, NGOs, and nursery owners, and examines how their roles, interests, and interactions shape the future of European forests.
The paper highlights both tensions and opportunities among communities focused on conservation, seed and seedling production, and protected forests. It also highlights how inclusive governance and improved collaboration can enhance forest resilience in the face of the climate and biodiversity crises.
Full reference
Reference: Rogelja, T., Secco, L., Lefèvre, F., Beuker, E., Westergren, M., Fady, B., González-Martínez, S. C., Myking, T., Pâques, L. E., Rellstab, C., Vendramin, G. G., Chauvin, T., van Loo, M., Ovaska, U., Giacomoni, J., Japelj, A., Farsakoglou, A. M., Konrad, H., Caiolo, S., … Masiero, M. (2025). Participatory mapping of the forest community stakeholders in Europe focusing on forest genetic resources, forest reproductive material, and protected forests. Trees, Forests and People, 21, 100913. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tfp.2025.100913
