In the heart of Europe, a complex web of stakeholders is navigating the delicate balance between conserving forest genetic resources and harnessing them for sustainable forestry and energy production. A recent study published in the journal *Trees, Forests and People* (translated to English as “Woods, Forests and People”) sheds light on this intricate landscape, offering valuable insights for policymakers, forest managers, and industry stakeholders.
Led by Tanja Rogelja from the University of Padova’s Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry (TESAF), the research employs the Quadruple Helix Approach to map the forest stakeholder landscape, focusing on forest genetic resources (FGR), forest reproductive material (FRM), and protected forests (PF). This approach categorizes stakeholders into four main groups: academia, industry, government, and civil society, each with its own sub-communities and priorities.
The study reveals a nuanced picture of the FGR sub-community, which straddles the line between strict conservation efforts and applied forestry. “The FGR sub-community supports both genetic conservation and productive forest management,” Rogelja explains. “This dual role is crucial for maintaining forest resilience, adaptability, health, productivity, and biological diversity.”
Meanwhile, the FRM sub-community is primarily concerned with tree breeding, seed production, and afforestation/reforestation programs. These activities are vital for the energy sector, as they ensure a steady supply of forest reproductive material for sustainable forestry practices and bioenergy production.
The Protected Forests sub-community, on the other hand, advocates for minimal human intervention, focusing on strict nature conservation. However, this group faces significant pressures from resource extraction, tourism, and land-use conflicts, highlighting the complex interplay between conservation and commercial interests.
The study also uncovers key tensions and governance misalignments that could impact the energy sector. Competing land-use priorities between forestry, agriculture, infrastructure, and energy sectors can hinder the development of sustainable bioenergy projects. Additionally, the limited flow of knowledge between stakeholder categories can lead to inefficient use of resources and missed opportunities for collaboration.
Rogelja’s research underscores the importance of integrating stakeholder perspectives and addressing governance challenges to strike a balance between conservation and sustainable forest utilization. By doing so, the energy sector can benefit from a more stable supply of forest reproductive material and a more sustainable approach to bioenergy production.
As the energy sector continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and the transition to renewable energy sources, this study offers a timely reminder of the importance of stakeholder engagement and integrated governance strategies. By working together, policymakers, forest managers, conservation organizations, and industry stakeholders can pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for Europe’s forests and the energy sector alike.
The findings of this study are particularly relevant for those involved in natural resource governance, actors’ identification, social-ecological systems, and the Quadruple Helix Approach. By understanding the complex web of stakeholders and their priorities, the energy sector can better navigate the challenges and opportunities of sustainable forestry and bioenergy production.
In the words of Rogelja, “This study shows where a common ground can be found and where divergent opinions are strong, opening the way for more integrated strategies and policies.” As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights provided by this research will be invaluable in shaping future developments and ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for all.