In the heart of Central Europe, Living Lab Central, in the context of the Small4Good project, bridges northern Switzerland and southwest Germany, addressing critical forest management challenges in the region. Supported by the European Union, this initiative focuses on equipping forest owners with the tools and strategies needed to overcome the dual threats of climate-induced droughts and pest infestations.
The Region and Its Forests
This hardwood-dominated region features forests rich in beech, oak, and ash. With around 6,000 small forest owners managing an average of 7 hectares each, the area exemplifies the fragmented ownership and socio-economic diversity of Central Europe. Such fragmentation, coupled with environmental stressors, necessitates innovative, collaborative management strategies.
Climate Resilience as the Ultimate Goal
Living Lab Central envisions a future where forests can thrive despite climate challenges. By promoting sustainable practices such as biodiversity conservation, carbon farming, and timber payments, the initiative aims to ensure both ecological health and economic viability for forest owners.
A Collaborative Approach: The March 2024 Workshop
The journey toward resilience began with an Initiation Workshop in Therwil, Switzerland. Bringing together 18 participants from research institutions, government agencies, forest owner organizations, and local communities, the event highlighted the region’s unique collaborative efforts.
Key activities included:
- Presentations on local forest strategies and citizen council contributions.
- Discussions on payments for ecosystem services and adapting to climate change.
- A hands-on educational forest visit with the Angenstein Forest District ranger.
The concept of citizen council-led forest management stood out as a distinctive approach, showcasing the potential for community-driven solutions to global challenges.
Why Living Lab Central Matters
As a model for sustainable forest management in Central Europe, Living Lab Central demonstrates how community collaboration, research, and education can transform challenges into opportunities. The region’s citizen council framework offers a unique perspective on managing shared resources while ensuring adaptability to future environmental shifts.
Conclusion
Living Lab Central is a testament to the power of community-driven innovation. By fostering partnerships and prioritizing education, the initiative paves the way for a resilient, sustainable future for forests and their stewards.
Learn more about this living lab by clicking on the Living Lab tab!
