New study highlights shift towards participatory forest policy and conservation in Europe
A comprehensive new study Integrating nature and people in European forest management: what is the state of nature conservation and role of participation? spanning twelve European countries reveals a significant shift in forest management: societal demands are increasingly favoring conservation and participatory policymaking. The research was conducted by TRANSFORMIT researchers Agata Konczal and Georg Winkel (both University of Wageningen) together with scientists from all over Europe. The work combined natural and social science perspectives, and explored how integrating nature conservation into forest management is becoming the dominant approach across Europe.
The study found that European countries are dedicating more forest areas to conservation, while also carefully managing how much wood is harvested compared to how much the forest grows. This shows a thoughtful approach to balancing the use of forest resources with protecting nature. Additionally, forest policies are paying much more attention to conservation issues than before.
However, the relationship between public participation in policy development and the integration of conservation measures is complex. While participatory decision-making is on the rise, its direct impact on conservation outcomes varies across regions.
The authors call for further research to better understand these dynamics and to support the ongoing evolution of forest management practices. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers, forest managers, and communities aiming to harmonize ecological, economic, and social goals in Europe’s forests.
Full reference: Konczal, A.A.; De Koning, J.H.C.; Larsen, J.B.; Felton, A.; Lawrence, A.; Ammer, CH.; Angelstam, P.; De Arano, I.Martinez; Bjärstig, T.; Blondet, M.; Calviño-Cancela, M.; De Vreese, R.; Dolriis, C.; Jaroszewicz, B.; Johansson, J.; Lexer, M.J.; Nichiforel, L.; Niedziakowski, K.; Paillet, Y.; Rozylowicz, L.; Sotirov, M.; Stokes, V.; Thorsen, B. Jellesmark; Vandekerkhove, K.; Wallin, I.; Weiss, G.; Schulz, T.; Wohlgemuth, T.; Zlatanov, T.; Winkel, G. (2025): Integrating nature and people in European forest management: what is the state of nature conservation and role of participation? International Forestry Review. https://doi.org/10.1505/146554825840319564