The forestry sector in Spain is emerging as an area with significant potential to stimulate the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), offering a perspective that goes beyond its current contribution of 0.6%. This sector is seen as key to the country’s economic development thanks to the sustainable management of timber and non-timber resources, driven by associations like COPADE.
The Spanish Forestry Strategy Horizon 2050 highlights that the modest participation of the forestry sector in the GDP does not reflect its true potential. To change this situation, strategic alliances have been created between public and private entities, with strong leadership from COPADE in coordinating these initiatives.
COPADE has established itself as an important link in connecting diverse sectors, facilitating a sustainable future. Projects like Bosque Innova and Del Bosque a Tu Casa, supported by the Biodiversity Foundation of the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) and financed by the European Union – NextGenerationEU, promote sustainable forest management along with the use of non-timber resources.
The Bosque Innova project aims not only for proper management of forest resources but also to combat depopulation and promote the bioeconomy in the Alto Tajo Natural Park and its surroundings. This initiative seeks to create green jobs, enrich the region’s biodiversity, and boost sectors like resin production through specialized training and biomass application.
Additionally, Del Bosque a Tu Casa promotes the use of non-timber forest resources through the establishment of laboratories and workshops in depopulated areas of Spain. This effort is specifically targeted towards women in rural areas, focusing on the production of sustainable products with traceability and quality guarantees.
Another project of great significance is Bosques Vivos, which aims to curb imported deforestation and raise awareness about responsible practices among more than 50,000 individuals and companies. This program collaborates with communities affected by deforestation in various countries in Latin America, promoting a commitment to sustainable development aligned with the 2030 Agenda.
These projects reflect how cooperation between different sectors is essential to address global environmental and social challenges. Bosque Innova and Del Bosque a Tu Casa are examples of innovation in the sustainable use of forest resources, proposing management that ensures their future without harming biodiversity or ecosystem services.
Finally, COPADE will bring its initiatives to the BioCultura event, an international fair focused on responsible consumption, where it will present both Bosque Innova and Bosques Vivos and inform about the progress and necessary policies to effectively integrate the bioeconomy into various sectors of society.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
