Key insights from the report reveal that forest practitioners and the general public have similar views about which are the most important benefits that forest can provide society. Value is especially placed on forests providing wildlife habitats, biodiversity, and regulating the environment, all key features of restoration management. The discrepancy rests with how these groups value carbon storage in forest, a key feature of climate-smart forestry. This aspect is less important to the general public who prefers cultural services, like aesthetics and recreation.

The report also reveals there is more to forest management decision making and societal acceptance for forest management than an individual’s values. The implementation of management activities is shaped and constrained by several factors beyond values, such as the availability of financial support mechanism and social norms, including opinions from members from the general public. Meanwhile, the general public’s acceptance towards forest management practices are shaped not only values, but also trust in forest practitioners and personal knowledge about forestry.

Given that both groups share similar values for forest, the findings highlight the importance of committed engagement between forest practitioners and members of the general public towards building trust and improving knowledge, which ultimately strengthening acceptance for forest management activities.

The report, led by Florencia Franzini from the European Forest Institute, represents a collaboration between researchers from  ForestPaths, HoliSoils and FORWARDS.

Download here the deliverable

DISCLAIMER: This deliverable has not yet been officially approved by the European Commission and should be considered a draft.

Featured image by Kiwihug on Unsplash