Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B EURO Mediterranean (EURO MED)

Date of latest update: 2025-05-27

Description

Description (EN):

The StrategyMedFor project has gathered 7 PPs in 6 countries of the Interreg Cooperation area (including 2 IPA countries) plus relevant APs from the forest EU & international scene, to support mission 2 of the programme to protect, restore & valorise the Natural environment & Heritage. This project addresses particularly to the Mediterranean Forest Ecosystem. Attending EU & international strategies & policies about forests, we tackle needs & gaps of knowledge on strategies & action plans for the sustainable management of the Mediterranean forests. For that reason, the main goal of the StrategyMedFor is the development of a Strategy for Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests (SSMMF) targeted to each forest type & adapted to foreseeable climate scenarios. The novelty of the work is the integration of new technologies & wide-Mediterranean data into a spatial context, combining geospatial data, remote sensing, GIS & climate modelling in the development of the Strategy. The change we envisage is that our SSMMF will be a reference document for the next 10 years in the EU & Mediterranean scene, by providing scientific-sound recommendations about how & which forests to protect, restore or manage into resilience. Specific tools are planned, such as thematic cartography about the status of the forests in real time, & the priority areas for action, to make sustainable management more efficient at regional, national & local scale. We commit to the implementation of some of the results of the StrategyMedFor project by engaging operational partners in key test areas in countries (Eastern Mediterranean) where we identified scarce investment in research &/or protection of Mediterranean forests, an to transfer knowledge & consolidate cross-country collaborations to the broad Mediterranean region (N-Africa & MiddleEast). In addition, our results will be amplified to the Interreg community via the TCP, IDP & other communication channels of the programme.

Description (FR):

StrategyMedFor (SMF) a réuni 7 PP dans 6 pays de la zone de coop. Interreg (dont 2 pays IPA) ainsi que des AP pertinents de la scène forestière EU & internat., pour soutenir la mission 2 du progr., dans le but de protéger, restaurer & valoriser l'environ. & le patrimoine naturel. Ce projet traite particulièrement de l'écosyst. forestier médit. En portant assistance aux strat. & politiques EU & int. sur les forêts, nous abordons les besoins & lacunes de connaissances en ce qui concerne les stratégies & plans d'action pour gestion durable (GD) des forêts Médit. Pour cette raison, l'objectif principal de SMF est le développement d'une Stratégie de GD des Forêts Méditerranéennes (SSMMF) ciblée sur chaque type de forêt & adaptée aux scénarios climatiques prévisibles. La nouveauté dans le travail est l'intégration de nouvelles tech & de données médit. de grenade échelle dans un contexte spatial, tout en combinant données géospatiales, télédétection, GIS & modélisation climatique dans le développement de la Stratégie. Le changement que nous envisageons est le suivant: notre SSMMF sera un document de référence pour les 10 prochaines années sur la scène EU & médit., et fournira des recommandations scientifiques en ce qui concerne la protection, restauration & gestion en résilience des forêts. Des outils spécifiques sont prévus, comme une cartographie thématique sur l'état des forêts & zones d'action prioritaires, pour rendre la GD plus efficace à l'échelle régionale, nationale & locale. Nous nous engageons à mettre en œuvre quelques uns des résultats du projet SMF en faisant participer des partenaires opérationnels dans des zones de test clés dans les pays (Médit. orientale) où nous avons identifié des investissements peu nombreux dans la recherche &/ou protection des forêts médit., un transfert de connaissances & consolidation croisée des collab. avec la région médit. (Afrique & Moyen-Orient). Nos résultats seront transmis à la communauté Interreg à travers le TCP & IDP

Actual Achievements (EN):

During the first reporting period of the StrategyMedFor project, each partner contributed significantly to advancing the project's objectives across different work packages. ETC-UMA, as Lead Partner, played a key role in facilitating communication and coordination among all project partners. The LP made sure to agree with all partners and implement a major change in the Application form by exchanging one partner (DDIP ZDC) from Bosnia and Herzegovina with another (Faculty of Forestry - University of Sarajevo) as DDIP ZDC communicated their lack of capacities to remain a project partner. During this period, ETC-UMA organised general and bilateral meetings to kick off the project activities. A pre-kickoff meeting was held in February 2024 (online) and the kickoff meeting in March in Malaga. Both meetings were crucial for setting the governance structure and establishing a work and communication flow. ETC-UMA also led the technical aspects of WP2 by reviewing existing geospatial data and initiating a data archive, collaborating with partners like Istituto Oikos, CNPF, and CIHEAM-MAICh to establish criteria for cartographic content. Additionally, ETC-UMA supported communication activities by contributing to the Communication Strategy, developing project brochures, and creating drafts for story maps for the project and the pilot sites. Istituto Oikos participated in partnership meetings supporting activities in WP1, WP2, and WP4. At the kickoff meeting, they presented WP4 activities and organised the Annual Medforval Meeting in June 2024, introducing StrategyMedFor to the Medforval network. They also contributed to the understanding of High Ecological Value (HEV) forests for WP2 and launched a survey to prepare the structure of the MOOC under WP4. They prepared the groundwork for the dissemination of project knowledge through various online platforms. AIFM leads the external communication activities. They developed the project's Communication Strategy and Action Plan drafts and are validating them with project partners in addition to templates for communication material. They developed the project's brochure, and launched the official project website and social media channels. AIFM followed up on the Carbon Footprint Calculator tool, reporting issues and preparing for a seminar on its usage. Their participation in project meetings and events, such as the Natural Heritage Mission meeting in Rovinj, underscored their commitment to effective communication and outreach. CIHEAM-MAICh focused on initiating WP1 and supported some WP2 discussions. Under WP1, they are overseeing the shaping of associated criteria and indicators for a visionary Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests (SSMMF). They supported an online introductory workshop with associated partners that took place in June 2024 to identify the main criteria important for the MEditerranean forests that the Strategy needs to include. CIHEAM-MAICh also reviewed existing geospatial data for use in thematic mapping for the case study of Samaria Park that they lead on. PIGNP contributed to the creation of a data archive (D2.1.1), which will serve as a tool for evaluating the status of Mediterranean forests, identifying impacts, and facilitating forest protection, restoration, or management actions. For WP1, PIGNP provided assistance in communication activities (A1.5) by contributing content for the Storymap and content template related to Galicica NP. This contribution was essential for fulfilling deliverable D1.5.1, the "Communication Protocol on Exchanging Information and Processing the Participation of Stakeholders," fostering by this cross-border cooperation for the sustainable management of Mediterranean forest ecosystems. UNSA FoF leads WP3 effectively, coordinating activities related to the pilot sites as well as testing, validation, and implementation of project tools and methodologies. They completed necessary administrative tasks to join the project, established communication channels, and organised WP3 meetings focused on selecting pilot sites and planning future actions. UNSA FoF also participated in WP1 and WP2 activities, assisting in developing research questions and contributing to spatial data screening. Additionally, they supported communication efforts by creating up-to-date content for the project’s story maps and establishing social media profiles, further enhancing the project's visibility. CNPF were late in joining the partnership activities, as the main expert that was expected to join StrtegyMedFor was on long medical leave. Some replacements were ensured by CNPF for the most essential meetings in period 1. This situation is expected to improve in period 2 with the incorporation of the CNPF expert assigned to the project. The partnership has ensured a strong start to the StrategyMedFor project, with significant progress made in communication, technical preparation, and the initiation of key work packages.

Project outputs: Strategy for Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests (SSMMF)
(EN)
Strategy for Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests (SSMMF)
(FR)
Organisations cooperating across borders for the Sustainable Management of the Mediterranean Forest ecosystem(EN)
Organisations cooperating across borders for the Sustainable Management of the Mediterranean Forest ecosystem(FR)
Geospatial tools for the evaluation of Mediterranean forests status, identification of impacts on forests and actions to protect, restore or manage them.

(FR)
Geospatial tools for the evaluation of Mediterranean forests status, identification of impacts on forests and actions to protect, restore or manage them.(EN)
Joint Development of action plans for forest sustainable management on test sites(EN)
Joint Development of action plans for forest sustainable management on test sites(FR)
A 10-year (2026-2035) Strategy of the Medforval network of HEV Mediterranean forests updated by transposing the knowledge generated in WP1 and WP2(FR)
A 10-year (2026-2035) Strategy of the Medforval network of HEV Mediterranean forests updated by transposing the knowledge generated in WP1 and WP2(EN)
Transboundary Plan for the management of Prespa/Ohrid Mediterranean Forests(EN)
Transboundary Plan for the management of Prespa/Ohrid Mediterranean Forests(FR)
Website: https://interreg-euro-med.eu/en/

Thematic information

Cultural heritage and arts Agriculture and fisheries and forestry Knowledge and technology transfer

Priority: (VI-B_EM_2) Greener MED

Priority specific objective: RSO2.7. Enhancing protection and preservation of nature, biodiversity and green infrastructure, including in urban areas, and reducing all forms of pollution

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO2 A greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk prevention and management, and sustainable urban mobility

Type of intervention: 079 Nature and biodiversity protection, natural heritage and resources, green and blue infrastructure

Partners (8)

Lead Partner: Universidad De Malaga

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999898311

Partner’s ID if not PIC: Q2918001E | ES1Q0000067 | - (FR), - (EN)

Department: European Topic Center for Analysis and Synthesis (ETC UMA)

Address: Avda. Cervantes, 29071 MÁLAGA, Spain

Department address: Arq. Fco. Peñalosa, Ed. In. ADA BYRON Ampl. Campus, 29010 MÁLAGA, Spain

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.uma.es

Total budget: EUR 558 657.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 446 926.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 111 731.50

Contractors:

Name: ANOUSKA KINAHAN
VAT registration or tax identification number: Y4905942X

Univerzitet u Sarajevu - Šumarski fakultet

Name: Univerzitet u Sarajevu - Šumarski fakultet

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 995549995

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 200494560007 | BA120000016 | - (FR), - (EN)

Address: Zagrebačka , 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.sfsa.unsa.ba

Total budget: EUR 162 000.20

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 129 600.16

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 32 400.04

Јавна установа Национален парк Галичица

Name: Јавна установа Национален парк Галичица

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 4020006144700 | MK120000003 | - (FR), - (EN)

Address: Velestovski pat, 6000 Ohrid, North Macedonia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: National public authority

Website: http://www.galicica.org.mk

Total budget: EUR 183 294.70

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 146 635.76

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 36 658.94

Μεσογειακό Αγρονομικό Ινστιτούτο Χανίων (CIHEAM-MAIX)

Name: Μεσογειακό Αγρονομικό Ινστιτούτο Χανίων (CIHEAM-MAIX)

Department: Geoinformation in Environmental Management

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999884925

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 090087459 | EL120000048 | - (FR), - (EN)

Address: Makedonias , 73100 CHANIA, Greece

Department address: Makedonias, 73100 Chania, Greece

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.iamc.ciheam.org/

Total budget: EUR 278 621.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 222 896.80

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 55 724.20

Association Internationale Forêts Méditerranéennes

Name: Association Internationale Forêts Méditerranéennes

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 41140434600016 | FR220000012 | - (FR), - (EN)

Address: Rue Louis Astouin, 13002 MARSEILLE, France

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.aifm.org

Total budget: EUR 332 103.60

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 265 682.88

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 66 420.72

Contractors:

Name: Deloitte & Associés
VAT registration or tax identification number: FR025728041

Centre National de la Propriété Forestière

Name: Centre National de la Propriété Forestière

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 958532273

Partner’s ID if not PIC: FR75180092355 | FR120000020 | - (FR), - (EN)

Address: rue de Chaillot , 75116 Paris, France

Legal status: public

Organisation type: National public authority

Website: https://www.cnpf.fr

Total budget: EUR 211 639.30

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 169 311.44

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 42 327.86

Istituto OIKOS ETS

Name: Istituto OIKOS ETS

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 932952791

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 2503750123 | IT220000027 | - (FR), - (EN)

Address: Via Crescenzago, 20134 Milano, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: SME

Website: http://www.istituto-oikos.org

Total budget: EUR 216 020.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 172 816.40

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 43 204.10

Contractors:

Name: Sirevi Italia S.r.l.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 07855160151

Stručna služba za razvoj i međunarodne projekte Zeničko-dobojskog kantona

Name: Stručna služba za razvoj i međunarodne projekte Zeničko-dobojskog kantona

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 936611437

Address: Kucukovici , 72000 Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Regional public authority

Website: http://www.zdk.ba

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Forestry

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Partners and Projects info

Public Institution Galicica National Park

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Partners and Projects info

CIHEAM - Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Chania

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Partners and Projects info

Association Internationale Forêts Méditerranéennes

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Partners and Projects info

National Center for Forest Owners

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Partners and Projects info

Istituto Oikos TSO

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Partners and Projects info

University of Malaga - European Topic Centre for Spatial Analysis and Synthesis

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Partners and Projects info

University of Department for Development and International Projects of Zenica-Doboj Canton

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Project acronym: StrategyMedFor

Project ID: Euro-MED0200314

Project start date: 2024-01-01

Project end date: 2026-09-30

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Mediterranean BIodiversity Protection COmmunity (MBPC), Interreg-Med, 2019-2022 (FR), Mediterranean BIodiversity Protection COmmunity (MBPC), Interreg-Med, 2019-2022 (EN) | The Interreg-Med project MBPC’s main achievement is the creation of a wide network of stakeholders linked to biodiversity protection and management. Furthermore, MBPC’s lead partner ETC-UMA has designed and implemented the multi-functional Mediterranean Biodiversity Knowledge Platform where we will upload the deliverables of WP2 A2.2 and A2.3. It will be the first entry of forest data within the MBKP. This way, it is expected to amplify the results of the project by broadcasting the geospatial data and analysis of the StrategyMedFor for a broader audience and types of stakeholders. (EN), The Interreg-Med project MBPC’s main achievement is the creation of a wide network of stakeholders linked to biodiversity protection and management. Furthermore, MBPC’s lead partner ETC-UMA has designed and implemented the multi-functional Mediterranean Biodiversity Knowledge Platform where we will upload the deliverables of WP2 A2.2 and A2.3. It will be the first entry of forest data within the MBKP. This way, it is expected to amplify the results of the project by broadcasting the geospatial data and analysis of the StrategyMedFor for a broader audience and types of stakeholders. (FR), EnBic2Lab project (LIFEWatch ERIC funding 2019-2023)
(https://enbic2lab.uma.es/)
(FR), EnBic2Lab project (LIFEWatch ERIC funding 2019-2023)
(https://enbic2lab.uma.es/)
(EN) | EnBic2Lab addresses the Mediterranean forest ecosystem in all the Mediterranean ecoregion, including the European, North African and Middle East Asian regions. It focuses on exploring new technologies as satellite imagery and artificial intelligence to support the monitoring and mapping of Mediterranean forest types, as well as providing a spatial and multi-temporal context to support efficient forest management. In the frame of the project, several products were produced that will be used for the current Interreg EuroMed call: an improved land cover map, a novel map of Mediterranean forest types (both a 10 m resolution), a forest database with +120 000 records, an archive of +500 satellite images, a model and machine for mapping forests and a spectral library of Mediterranean forest types. In addition, a network of +50 forest experts in 16 countries of the basin was established.
The data generated in EnBic2Lab will be used in WP1 (harmonized databases) and WP2 (maps).
(FR), EnBic2Lab addresses the Mediterranean forest ecosystem in all the Mediterranean ecoregion, including the European, North African and Middle East Asian regions. It focuses on exploring new technologies as satellite imagery and artificial intelligence to support the monitoring and mapping of Mediterranean forest types, as well as providing a spatial and multi-temporal context to support efficient forest management. In the frame of the project, several products were produced that will be used for the current Interreg EuroMed call: an improved land cover map, a novel map of Mediterranean forest types (both a 10 m resolution), a forest database with +120 000 records, an archive of +500 satellite images, a model and machine for mapping forests and a spectral library of Mediterranean forest types. In addition, a network of +50 forest experts in 16 countries of the basin was established.
The data generated in EnBic2Lab will be used in WP1 (harmonized databases) and WP2 (maps).
(EN), Life BIORGEST project (European LIFE funding, 2018-2023)
http://lifebiorgest.eu/fr/index/
(FR), Life BIORGEST project (European LIFE funding, 2018-2023)
http://lifebiorgest.eu/fr/index/
(EN) | The Life BIORGEST project is being implemented in France, Occitania, and Spain, Catalonia, and seeks to develop new forest management tools to improve the biodiversity of Mediterranean forests. Indeed, sustainable forest management is a key tool to increase the resilience of forests to climate change. It also has a significant impact on the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity.
This project has made it possible to harmonise the Potential Biodiversity Index (PBI) between France and Catalonia (the PBI can also be used in Italy). The PBI is a tool for forest managers to integrate ordinary taxonomic biodiversity into their day-to-day management. The dissemination of this tool in Euro-Mediterranean wooded areas will allow forest managers to assess the carrying capacity of a forest stand for living beings (plants, birds, insects, etc.). This diagnostic tool, which may enrich the knowledge of an area of community interest recognised as a habitat for specific species, will enable this type of area to be managed, through appropriatsilvicultural interventions, for the preservation and improvement of ordinary and specific biodiversity and for the resilience of this ecosystem.
WP3 A3.3 foresees the extension of the IBP concept to the Eastern Mediterranean Forests (BiH, GR & MK) by adapting the methodology and protocols to the particularities of Balkan and Greek Forests.
(FR), The Life BIORGEST project is being implemented in France, Occitania, and Spain, Catalonia, and seeks to develop new forest management tools to improve the biodiversity of Mediterranean forests. Indeed, sustainable forest management is a key tool to increase the resilience of forests to climate change. It also has a significant impact on the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity.
This project has made it possible to harmonise the Potential Biodiversity Index (PBI) between France and Catalonia (the PBI can also be used in Italy). The PBI is a tool for forest managers to integrate ordinary taxonomic biodiversity into their day-to-day management. The dissemination of this tool in Euro-Mediterranean wooded areas will allow forest managers to assess the carrying capacity of a forest stand for living beings (plants, birds, insects, etc.). This diagnostic tool, which may enrich the knowledge of an area of community interest recognised as a habitat for specific species, will enable this type of area to be managed, through appropriatsilvicultural interventions, for the preservation and improvement of ordinary and specific biodiversity and for the resilience of this ecosystem.
WP3 A3.3 foresees the extension of the IBP concept to the Eastern Mediterranean Forests (BiH, GR & MK) by adapting the methodology and protocols to the particularities of Balkan and Greek Forests. (EN), MEDFORVAL (private funding from the MAVA Foundation, 2015-2020)
(www.medforval.org (FR), MEDFORVAL (private funding from the MAVA Foundation, 2015-2020)
(www.medforval.org (EN) | The MEDFORVAL project aimed to bring together practitioners and decision-makers from different sectorsecological value, i.e. sites with exceptional biodiversity encompassing high concentrations of tree species, but also the multitude of other plants, animals and fungi that inhabit forest ecosystems and their associated genetic diversity. This project turned into a MEDFORVAL network that continues to this day but needs a common project to find a new dynamic. WP4 foresees an activity (A4.3) that will review the HEV concept and Medforval Strategy; and another activity (A4.4) to enlarge the Medforval network to one extra member: the Galicica N.P. of the Mediterranean on concrete measures to protect, manage or restore the ecological values of their respective sites, through networking. This project brought together 16 Mediterranean forest sites of high nature value.
(EN), The MEDFORVAL project aimed to bring together practitioners and decision-makers from different sectorsecological value, i.e. sites with exceptional biodiversity encompassing high concentrations of tree species, but also the multitude of other plants, animals and fungi that inhabit forest ecosystems and their associated genetic diversity. This project turned into a MEDFORVAL network that continues to this day but needs a common project to find a new dynamic. WP4 foresees an activity (A4.3) that will review the HEV concept and Medforval Strategy; and another activity (A4.4) to enlarge the Medforval network to one extra member: the Galicica N.P. of the Mediterranean on concrete measures to protect, manage or restore the ecological values of their respective sites, through networking. This project brought together 16 Mediterranean forest sites of high
(FR), EUFORGEN
https://www.euforgen.org/
(EN), EUFORGEN
https://www.euforgen.org/
(FR) | EUFORGEN is an international cooperation programme that promotes the conservation and sustainable use of forest genetic resources in Europe as an integral part of sustainable forest management. EUFORGEN carries out projects on research issues of pan-European forest genetic resources interest with a network of leading experts. The overall goal of EUFORGEN is to promote conservation and sustainable use of forest genetic resources in Europe as an integral part of sustainable forest management, and to serve as a platform for pan‐European collaboration in this area.
The knowledge generated in EUFORGEN will be evaluated in WP1 A1.1 and A1.2
(EN), EUFORGEN is an international cooperation programme that promotes the conservation and sustainable use of forest genetic resources in Europe as an integral part of sustainable forest management. EUFORGEN carries out projects on research issues of pan-European forest genetic resources interest with a network of leading experts. The overall goal of EUFORGEN is to promote conservation and sustainable use of forest genetic resources in Europe as an integral part of sustainable forest management, and to serve as a platform for pan‐European collaboration in this area.
The knowledge generated in EUFORGEN will be evaluated in WP1 A1.1 and A1.2 (FR), LIFE JunEx, 2013-2017 (European LIFE funding, 2013-2017)
(https://www.junex.gr/index.php/en/)
(EN), LIFE JunEx, 2013-2017 (European LIFE funding, 2013-2017)
(https://www.junex.gr/index.php/en/)
(FR) | The Prespa area (Greece) hosts one of the largest areas of EU priority habitat “9562* Grecian Juniper Woods” in the Balkans (2,000 ha). The JunEx project aimed to improve, restore and promote Juniper woods through grazing as a management and forest protection measure. Specific project objectives were the improvement of the conservation status of the habitat in areas where it has been degraded, the restoration of the juniper woods by boosting regeneration rates (by natural or artificial means) and the increase of knowledge of stakeholders involved as wood managers or users. The project eventually led to an improvement of Juniper forest functions through the increase of plaProject GSR Model (Governmental Social Responsibility Model - An Innovative Approach of Quality in Governmental Operations and Outcomes) aimed to create conditions for development of “Sustainable Governmental Services”, capable to drive and coordinate Sustainable Socio-Economic Growth (SEE Cooperation Programme). This programme will be taken into account for the implementation of some restoration actions in BiH test case (WP3 A3.3)
nt species, the enhancement of the natural forest regeneration, fostered by planting of juniper seedlings and selective logging of broadleaved species and the reduction of the wildfire risk through clearing and removal of biomass. The project activity A4.2 will capitalize on the results of the LIFE JunEx, embedding all the results and outputs in the technical recommendations on Pindus mountains forest protection, restoration and management delivered after validation during the workshop at the Galičica NP.
(EN), The Prespa area (Greece) hosts one of the largest areas of EU priority habitat “9562* Grecian Juniper Woods” in the Balkans (2,000 ha). The JunEx project aimed to improve, restore and promote Juniper woods through grazing as a management and forest protection measure. Specific project objectives were the improvement of the conservation status of the habitat in areas where it has been degraded, the restoration of the juniper woods by boosting regeneration rates (by natural or artificial means) and the increase of knowledge of stakeholders involved as wood managers or users. The project eventually led to an improvement of Juniper forest functions through the increase of plant species, the enhancement of the natural forest regeneration, fostered by planting of juniper seedlings and selective logging of broadleaved species and the reduction of the wildfire risk through clearing and removal of biomass. The project activity A4.2 will capitalize on the results of the LIFE JunEx, embedding all the results and outputs in the technical recommendations on Pindus mountains forest protection, restoration and management delivered after validation during the workshop at the Galičica NP.
(FR), SEE program (2007-2013) (EN), SEE program (2007-2013) (FR) | Project GSR Model (Governmental Social Responsibility Model - An Innovative Approach of Quality in Governmental Operations and Outcomes) aimed to create conditions for development of “Sustainable Governmental Services”, capable to drive and coordinate Sustainable Socio-Economic Growth (SEE Cooperation Programme). This programme will be taken into account for the implementation of some restoration actions in BiH test case (WP3 A3.3)
(EN), Project GSR Model (Governmental Social Responsibility Model - An Innovative Approach of Quality in Governmental Operations and Outcomes) aimed to create conditions for development of “Sustainable Governmental Services”, capable to drive and coordinate Sustainable Socio-Economic Growth (SEE Cooperation Programme). This programme will be taken into account for the implementation of some restoration actions in BiH test case (WP3 A3.3)
(FR), ADRION program (2014-2020)
(EN), ADRION program (2014-2020)
(FR) | The ADRIONET project (Adriatic-Ionian network of authentic villages) aims to form a transnational network of authentic villages in the Adriatic-Ionian area. This area has a significant number of small, authentic forestry environments, most oftenvironments, to facilitate the preservation and affirmation of their nature and culture through a different approach and with the use of innovative instruments, and to enable small, scattered villages to connect and thus increase their transnational visibility. This programme will be taken into account for the implementation of some restoration actions in BiH test case (WP3 A3.3)
en located in extremely beautiful locations, valleys, mountain-hill, rural-peripheral or marginal areas, which are often neglected and exposed to the risk of depopulation and abandonment. ADRIONET should help to overcome the marginalization and insufficient valorization of such forestry (EN), The ADRIONET project (Adriatic-Ionian network of authentic villages) aims to form a transnational network of authentic villages in the Adriatic-Ionian area. This area has a significant number of small, authentic forestry environments, most oftenvironments, to facilitate the preservation and affirmation of their nature and culture through a different approach and with the use of innovative instruments, and to enable small, scattered villages to connect and thus increase their transnational visibility. This programme will be taken into account for the implementation of some restoration actions in BiH test case (WP3 A3.3)
en located in extremely beautiful locations, valleys, mountain-hill, rural-peripheral or marginal areas, which are often neglected and exposed to the risk of depopulation and abandonment. ADRIONET should help to overcome the marginalization and insufficient valorization of such forestry (FR)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 942 336.80

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 553 869.44

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Strategy for the sustainable management of Mediterranean Forests (draft version)
Strategy for the sustainable management of Mediterranean Forests
Policy brief on the Strategy for the sustainable management of Mediterranean Forests
Policy brief on the Strategy for the sustainable management of Mediterranean Forests (draft version)
Public Report on Criteria and Indicators for every category of management.
Public Report on Criteria and Indicators for every category of management (draft version)
Public users’ guide for forest managers for each category of management.
Public users’ guide for forest managers for each category of management (draft version)
Technical report - Set of criteria to be converted into geodata (internal report)
Technical report - Set of criteria to be converted into geodata (internal report)
Carbon footprint monitoring plan
Carbon footprint monitoring plan
Carbon footprint reports
Carbon footprint reports
Communication protocol on exchanging information and processing the participation of stakeholders
Communication protocol on exchanging information and processing the participation of stakeholders
Analytics on participants, viewers and reach
Analytics on participants, viewers and reach
Report on feedbacks and reviews from partners, participants and users
Report on feedbacks and reviews from partners, participants and users
Implementation protocol with the local stakeholders and capacity building tools
Implementation protocol with the local stakeholders and capacity building tools
Project close-up documents, capitalization reports and knowledge platform
Project close-up documents, capitalization reports and knowledge platform
Data archive: raster, vector or georreferenced database
Data archive: raster, vector or georreferenced database
HEV and IBP maps
HEV and IBP maps
Impacts to Mediterranean forests map
Impacts to Mediterranean forests map
Climate scenarios
Climate scenarios
Map of forest spatial context (fragmentation, connectivity and marginality)
Map of forest spatial context (fragmentation, connectivity and marginality
Map of forest status and quality (vulnerable, HEV and degraded forests) (draft version)
Map of forest status and quality (vulnerable, HEV and degraded forests)
Priority areas map for protection, restoration, and management for resilience
Priority areas map for protection, restoration, and management for resilience (draft version)
Map of tree species migration routes and extinction risk
Map of tree species migration routes and extinction risk
Educational material for MOOC (WP4).
Educational material for MOOC (WP4).
Geodata layers and maps
Geodata layers and maps
Divulgative material for dissemination
Divulgative material for dissemination
Draft of 3 action plans on forests of pilot cases
Draft of 3 action plans on forests of pilot cases
3 x action plans on protection, restoration and/or management at 3 pilot sites
3 x action plans on protection, restoration and/or management at 3 pilot sites
SSMMF and criteria report (final version)
SSMMF and criteria report (final version)
Cartography (final version)
Cartography (final version)
Report of the ICE meeting
Report of the ICE meeting
IBP extension report
IBP extension report
Technical IBP documents
Technical IBP documents
IBP teaching kit for MOOC (5 videos, original language French)
IBP teaching kit for MOOC (5 videos, original language French)
MOOC on Med forests (video lessons, podcasts, training material, slides, self-evaluation tests)
MOOC on Med forests (video lessons, podcasts, training material, slides, self-evaluation tests)
Workshop report
Workshop report
Transboundary Plan outlining technical recommendations on Prespa/Ohrid Mediterranean forests
Transboundary Plan outlining technical recommendations on Pindus mountains forest conservation
Memorandum of Understading-MoU signed by relevant institutions/stakeholders in the Prespa/Ohrid area
Memorandum of Understading-MoU signed by relevant institutions/stakeholders in the Prespa/Ohrid area
Video recording of the seminar
Video recording of the seminar.
16 assessment reports for each Medforval member site
16 assessment reports for each Medforval member site
Medforval Strategy 2026-2035
Medforval Strategy 2026-2035
Workshop report
Workshop report
Agreement between the Medforval network and Galičica NP
Agreement between the Medforval network and Galičica NP

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EuropeanGreenDeal
Forests and forest-based sector play a strong role in reaching the objectives of the EU Green Deal. In the Green Deal, preserving and restoring ecosystems and biodiversity is in fact highlighted as one of the keys to transform the EU’s economy for a sustainable future. The EU 2030 Biodiversity Strategy, the New EU 2030 Forest Strategy and the New EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change are three flagship initiatives of the Green Deal that cooperate to achieve zero net CO2 emissions by 2050 and to decouple economic growth from resource use. The project will contribute to all of them, so please refer to the dedicated box for the description.
EUStrategyAdriaticIonianRegion The EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region is one of the four EU macro-regional strategies, which covers ten countries, four EU Member States (Croatia, Greece, Italy, Slovenia) and six non-EU countries (Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, San Marino, Serbia). Overall, the project will address one of the four thematic pillars where countries aim to create synergies and foster coordination in the Region, namely Pillar 3 (Environmental Quality), with specific reference to the Topic 2 (“Transnational terrestrial habitats and biodiversity”). Among the specific actions foreseen with the framework of Pillar 3, the project will contribute to “developing joint management plans for cross-border habitats and ecosystems” in WP4, which will deliver technical recommendations on Pindus mountains forest management, with specific reference to the Ohrid/Prespa transboundary landscape (Greece, North Macedonia, Albania)
Other The EU 2030 Biodiversity Strategy aims to put Europe's biodiversity on a path to recovery by 2030 and contains specific actions and commitments concerning forest landscape. Increasing the quantity of forests and improving their health and resilience is a key action of the Strategy (paragraph 2.2). In this regard, WP1 will deliver a Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests (SSMMF) and a set of indicators to improve the management of Mediterranean forests towards their protection, restoration and resilience. The SSMMF will also put emphasis on old-growth forests, which is underlined as fundamental to ensure biodiversity preservation by the Strategy. The Strategy stresses also the key role that foresters play in ensuring sustainable forest management and in restoring and sustaining biodiversity in forests (par 2.2.4). Besides the deliverables of WP1, foresters will benefit from the development of thematic forest maps on impacts, climate scenarios, fragmentation, connectivity and marginality of Med forests (WP2) to support their understanding of critical aspects of forest biodiversity protection. Most important, the project will test the application of the Index of Biodiversity Potential (IBP, in WP3), which already proved to help foresters in rapid assessments of the forest quality, in the Eastern EU and IPA countries, and will also deliver pedagogical tools (e.g. a dedicated MOOC) to increase the capacity of foresters in the use of the Index.
Other The New EU Forest Strategy for 2030 contributes to the package of measures proposed to achieve GHG reductions of at least 55% by 2030 & climate neutrality in 2050 in the EU. The Strategy stems from the EU 2030 Biodiversity Strategy & commits to strictly protecting primary & old-growth forests (par. 3.1), restoring degraded forests (par. 3.2), & ensuring they are managed sustainably (par. 2). We will deliver strategies (WP1), tools (WP2 & WP3) & common understanding (WP4) that will support the improvement of forest resilience, highlighted in the Strategy as one of the main goals to be achieved through an increased protection & restoration of forest biodiversity & adoption of biodiversity-friendly forest management practices. The Strategy emphasizes the pivotal role of forest monitoring & data collection (par. 4), foreseeing a new legislative proposal on EU Forest Observation, Reporting & Data Collection to ensure a coordinated EU forest monitoring, data collection & reporting system, & the improvement of forest knowledge (par. 5). Both topics will be specifically addressed by the WP2, which will deliver thematic maps on impacts, climate scenarios, fragmentation, connectivity & marginality of Med forests. In addition, WP1 will deliver a Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Medit Forests (SSMMF), embedding the Strategic Framework on Medit Forests (2013) & the Medit Forest Research Agenda 2030, & a set of indicators to improve the management of Medit forests towards their protection, restoration & resilience, that overall will support the implementation of the Strategy, that specifically calls for ensuring forest restoration & reinforced sustainable forest management for climate adaptation & forest resilience (see par. 3.2). Particularly, we commit to implement (WP3) specific actions for the restoration & sustainable management of selected forests, including fire-smart actions & a carbon offset action of planting trees, all contributing to the reduction of GHG
Other The New EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change sets out how the EU can adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change and become climate resilient by 2050.
The Strategy has four principle objectives: to make adaptation smarter, swifter and more systemic, and to step up international action on adaptation to climate change. Both WP1 and WP2 will explicitly address the topic of adaptation. WP1 will deliver a Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests (SSMMF), which will contribute to the “systemic adaptation” (paragraph 2.2) of forest protection and management supporting policy development at all levels and sectors. On the other hand, WP2 will contribute to the “smarter adaptation” (par. 2.1) thanks to the delivery of a map on climate scenarios for forest highlighting corridors for elevational and latitudinal tree species shifts, which will improve knowledge on the CC-related impacts on forests and help foresters in managing uncertainty and develop adaptive forest management strategies.
TerritorialAgenda2030 The Territorial Agenda 2030 is a strategic framework document that provides orientation for strategic spatial planning and calls for strengthening the territorial dimension of sector policies at all governance levels. It seeks to promote an inclusive and sustainable future for all places and help achieve Sustainable Development Goals in Europe. The project will directly address several actions that are called for on the topic of “sustainable development and climate change”. Territorial tailor-made responses to climate change impacts as well as
mitigation and adaptation (art. 35) will be fostered in WP1 through the Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests (SSMMF), that will account for the ecological and socio-economic differences of Mediterranean forests across the basin, but also in WP3, which will adapt the Index of Biodiversity Potential (IBP) to Bosnia-Herzegovina and North Macedonia.
The Agenda also calls for action to halt loss of biodiversity and land consumption (art. 36) and sustainable and effective use of natural resources (art. 41), two themes that represent overarching project objectives.
The project will also contribute to develop two Agenda priorities, namely the “Integration beyond borders” and the “A Green Europe”.
WP1 and WP4 will be consistent with the former, which calls for the development of new strategic documents (e.g. the SSMMF) and the promotion of co-development, involving citizens across borders (art. 51), which fits the goals of the activity A4.2 (transboundary strategy for the Ohrid/Prespa forests developed with a participatory approach). The latter promotes the application of the most relevant EU policies and strategies such as the EU Green Deal, the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the EU Forest Strategy (art. 53), please refer to the respective boxes for the description of how the project will contribute.
Other
Approximately 50% of the total area in Natura 2000 is represented by forests (around 21% of the total forest resource in the EU). The project activities will help Member states (and IPA countries) to comply with provisions of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive, that requires establishing the necessary conservation measures, on each site, which correspond to the ecological requirements of the protected habitat types (art. 6.1), take measures to avoid deterioration of the habitats (art. 6.2) and introduce an assessment procedure for plans or projects that are likely to have a significant negative impact on a Natura 2000 site (Art. 6.3 and 6.4). WP1 will deliver a set of indicators to evaluate needs and criticalities of Mediterranean forest, including management for protection of Mediterranean forests, biodiversity richness, genetic pool uniqueness, marginality of the population, that will help member states to undertake surveillance of the conservation status of the forest habitats of Community interest, as provided by the Art. 11, and adopt appropriate conservation measures. WP2 will support this latter action by providing the cartographic basis to identify at fine scale (10 m resolution) threats to forest conservation, such as fragmentation and isolation, with an outlook to CC-related future scenarios, helping the periodical update of the SAC’s standard Data Forms
Other The “2030 GreenerMed” Agenda addresses key environmental issues in the Mediterranean that require cooperation across borders and sectors. The objectives of the Agenda are built on 3 three primary Axes of work, that is, (1) support the transition towards a green economy, (2) prevent and reduce pollution and (3) protect, preserve, manage and restore natural resources in the Mediterranean region within an integrated ecosystem approach. Among the 9 Key Actions of Axis 3, the project will contribute to KA3.2 “Promote the sustainable management of landscape, seascapes and coastal areas in the Mediterranean” and KA3.5 “Promote transboundary cooperation”. As for KA3.1, the WP1 will provide the basis for a sustainable management of Mediterranean forests thanks to the drafting of a targeted Strategy (SSMMF) and the definition of a set of guidelines, criteria and indicators towards Mediterranean forests protection, restoration and resilience. Several activities of WP1, WP3 and WP4 are aligned with KA3.2 and will actively engage stakeholders from partner countries (Spain, Italy, France, Greece, Bosnia Herzegovina, North Macedonia) and associated partner countries (Lebanon, Albania, Montenegro), through thematic exchanges of forest protection and management (e.g. A.1.1 SSMMF, A.4.2 International workshop on forest conservation of Ohrid/Prespa landscape, A.4.4 Capitalization of the project results to the wider Mediterranean region through the dissemination to the Medforval network).
Other In December 2022, Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) will meet (COP15) to determine the post-2020 global biodiversity framework, a global strategy for jointly safeguarding nature and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The framework must aim to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and achieve recovery by 2050. The first draft, released in July 2021, foresees 4 long-term Goals and 21 Targets (grouped in 3 topics). The project's attention to forest connectivity and resilience in WP1 (indicators, strategy) and WP2 (connectivity map) will contribute to Goal A, which specifically aims at increasing the integrity of ecosystems. Sustainable use of natural resources (Goal B) will be addressed as the main overarching goal by the SSMMF developed in WP1. The project objectives and outcomes are also fully aligned to the achievement of the targets, including protection of HEV forest genetic resources (A1.1, A.1.2 > Target 4), forest restoration and connectivity (A1.1, A1.2, A2.1, A4.3 > Target 2, Target 3, Target 10), forest CC adaptation and resilience (A2.1, A4.3 > Target 8, Target 10), forest sustainable management (A1.1, A4.3 > Target 10), mainstreaming forest management into policies (A4.1, A4.2, A4.3 > Target 14), providing access to information on forests (A4.1 > Target 16), increasing relevant, high quality and innovative knowledge on forests (A2.2, A2.3 > Target 20) and effective participation in decision making on forests (A1.1, A4.2 > Target 21).
Other Western Balkans Strategy
In February 2018 the EU Commission adopted a strategy for “A credible enlargement perspective for and enhanced EU engagement with the Western Balkans”. The Strategy includes six flagship initiatives that the EU needs to take over the next years to support the transformation efforts of the Western Balkans (Bosnia Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Albania) in areas of mutual interest. Initiative 1, targeted to strengthen the rule of law, focuses also to help Western Balkan countries in the application of EU rules and standards, including EU environmental laws. Exchanges with Greek PPs and APs (CIHEAM-MAICh, SPP) in the Prespa/Ohrid area in the framework of A4.2 will support the transposition of Natura 2000 Directives in North Macedonia and Albania, by assessing the feasibility of the application of site-specific conservation measures already enforced in neighbouring N2000 SACs (e.g. Ethnikos Drymos Prespon - GR1340010, Ori Varnounta - GR1340009, Koryfes Orous Grammos - GR1320002) to the technical recommendations for the whole Prespa/Ohrid transboundary area.
Other The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 (UN GA Resolution “Agenda 2030”) as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity. The 17 SDGs are integrated, as they recognize that action in one area will affect outcomes in others, and that development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability. The overarching project framework fits into Goal 15 (“Life on land”) which aims to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss, which specific references to Target 15.2 (“promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of
forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally”) and 15.b (“Mobilize significant resources from all sources and at all levels to finance sustainable forest management and provide adequate incentives to developing countries to advance such
management, including for conservation and reforestation”), but also 15.1 (“conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems”, including forests and mountains), 15.4 (“ensure conservation of mountain ecosystems, including biodiversity”), 15.5 (“Take urgent action to reduce degradation of natural habitats, halt loss of biodiversity”), 15.9 (“integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning”). References are also to Goal 13 (“Climate action”), with the related Target 13.1 (“Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity”) and 13.3 (“Improve institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation”).

Deliverable (other than infrastructural investment) areas:

Severna Makedonija (MK), Ohrid, Velestovski pat , bb, 6000
Severna Makedonija (MK), Ohrid, Velestovski pat bb, 6000
Severna Makedonija (MK), Ohrid, Velestovski pat bb, 6000
Bosnia and Herzegovina (BA)

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 001 - Enterprises supported (of which: micro, small, medium, large), Measurement unit:
RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Programme Result Indicator:

RCR90N Long-term cross-border innovation networks, Measurement unit: Number of networks
PSI1 - Organisations with increased institutional capacity due to their participation in cooperation activities across borders, Measurement unit: organisations

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSAIR

EUSAIR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSAIR Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B EURO Mediterranean (EURO MED)

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2025-05-27

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

64 / 64 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

608 / 608 (100%)

Notes on the data

Languages

Contact Form

Strategy for the Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests

Description

Thematic information

Partners (8)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Disclaimer