State of the World's Forests 2024: a call for innovation for resilient Mediterranean forests
Mediterranean forests are particularly vulnerable
The FAO report on the State of the World’s Forests 2024 makes an alarming observation: our forests, pillars of biodiversity and climate regulators, are under increasing threat from climate change. Extreme events are on the increase (droughts, fires, storms), making forest ecosystems more fragile and reducing their capacity to provide the many essential services on which we depend.
Mediterranean forests, which are already subject to heavy human pressure, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Their ability to regenerate is being undermined by more frequent and more intense droughts, as well as by an increase in the number of forest fires.
Innovation, an essential lever for a sustainable future
Faced with these challenges, the FAO report highlights the crucial role of innovation in forest management. Digital technologies, forest genetics, new management practices and participatory approaches offer new prospects for strengthening forest resilience.
- Technological solutions at the service of the forest: drones, satellites and sensors make it possible to monitor the state of forests in real time, detect threats and optimise interventions. Artificial intelligence opens up new ways of analysing large quantities of data and predicting the evolution of ecosystems.
- Forest management adapted to the challenges of the 21st century: Forest management practices must evolve to take account of the effects of climate change. Mixed forestry, the restoration of ecosystems and the promotion of biodiversity are all actions that need to be implemented to strengthen the resilience of forests.
- Participatory approaches for sustainable management: The participation of local communities, economic players and scientists is essential to co-construct solutions tailored to the specific characteristics of each area.
The challenges ahead
While innovation offers many opportunities, it will not be enough on its own to meet the challenges of climate change. Profound changes are needed at the political, institutional and financial levels:
- Ambitious public policies: Governments must put in place ambitious forestry policies that take account of climate and biodiversity issues.
- Appropriate funding: Investment in research, training and the implementation of forest restoration projects must be stepped up.
- Strong and resilient institutions: The institutions responsible for forest management must be strengthened and given the resources they need to meet the new challenges.
AIFM mobilises for a sustainable future for Mediterranean forests
Faced with these challenges, the IAMF is mobilising to support research and innovation, in particular through the INTEGRADIV project, which aims to gain a better understanding of the forest ecosystems of the Mediterranean biome in Europe and to propose effective protection measures.
Innovation is also at the heart of the StrategyMedFor project, which aims to develop a Sustainable Management Strategy for Mediterranean Forests, targeted at each forest type and adapted to foreseeable climate scenarios, thus contributing to their restoration and conservation.
The FAO 2024 report reminds us of the urgent need to act to preserve our forests. By building on innovation, strengthening cooperation and mobilising all stakeholders, we can build a sustainable future for Mediterranean forests.