To describe the StrategyMedFor project you can use the following sentences:

One sentence

The Interreg Euro-MED StrategyMedFor project uses new technologies and data to develop a Strategy for Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests.

One paragraph

Despite the increase in Mediterranean forest cover in recent decades, these forests are not in good condition and require urgent action to increase their resilience to climate change and restore their biodiversity. According to recent studies, the Mediterranean basin is the second most affected region in the world by climate change. This will have an impact on the quality, integrity, distribution and cover of forest species, which will in turn impact the livelihoods of local communities. The StrategyMedFor project aims to develop a targeted Strategy for Sustainable Management of Mediterranean Forests for each forest type, adapted to foreseeable climate scenarios, thus contributing to their restoration and conservation. The project is scheduled to last for 2.5 years, from January 2024 to September 2026.

Full version

The Mediterranean basin is the third-richest hotspot in the world in terms of plant biodiversity and one of the greatest sources of endemic plants on Earth. Forest and wooded lands are, at the same time, one of the most threatened ecosystems in the Mediterranean because of the large population concentration and the high pressure from human activities. Moreover, the Mediterranean is one of the most affected regions by climate change. Only 5% of natural vegetation in the Mediterranean basin remains, the lowest of any biodiversity hotspot.

Following EU and international policies to address knowledge gaps in sustainable management of Mediterranean forests, StrategyMedFor aims to create a targeted strategy for each forest type, considering future climate scenarios. Using new technologies and data across the Mediterranean region (satellite data, geographic information systems and climate modeling) the goal of StrategyMedFor is for this strategy to be a key document for the next decade, guiding forest protection, restoration, and building resilience. A series of new tools like real-time forest condition maps and priority action areas will also be developed to improve sustainable management at all levels.