The first edition of the EFI Mediterranean Network Forum renews collaboration and invites new participation in EFIMED’s network connecting forest researchers, policymakers, and practitioners across the Mediterranean.

The 2022 Network Forum sees the launch of the Mediterranean Forest Research Agenda – MFRA 2030, which aims to be a key point of reference for further action over the next decade. MFRA 2030 is intended to inspire stakeholders to play a role in making Mediterranean forests more resilient in the face of climate change and demographic challenges.

A series of online workshops focussing on the four themes of the MFRA 2030 takes place in November in preparation for the forum. Workshop outputs will be presented during the forum and serve as starting point from which to tackle a crosscutting issue for Mediterranean forests: forest management for Mediterranean forest resilience. Forum results will be presented to governments and development agencies seeking collaboration, partnerships, and funding and capacity building opportunities.

Opportunities to showcase research and activities from around the network include a poster session on themes related to the MFRA 2030, while the Mediterranean Youth Task Force will be represented throughout the forum.

The field visit to Montserrat Natural Park is an integral part of the forum, offering the opportunity to connect and interact in one of Catalunya’s most magnificent natural parks. The visit will showcase how rural abandonment, biomass accumulation, and forest fire risks are managed in Catalonia.