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Description
The project is linked to adaptation and mitigation of climate change at local level, specifically in forestry.
The aim is to support introduction of adaptation and mitigation measures in forestry, based on up-to-date information on a) ecology and stability of forest ecosystems b) ecology and adaptability of trees c) existing examples of good practice d) importance of key species through provision of essential information from recent years of research and examples of good practice in form of high-quality text, graphic and audio-visual materials and their dissemination towards target groups (TG) through a promotional campaign.
Main activities are: 1) creation of a textbook whose content is to present up-to-date information from forest ecology essential for creation of adapted forests capable of locally mitigating the effects of climate change 2) creation of short instructional films expanding and complementing headings set out in textbook with field examples, accompanied by an interpretation by researchers and practitioners 3) creation of a series of educational articles on the subject and a promotional campaign linked to dissemination of information among TG.
TG is a segment of professional public that influences or has a chance to influence specific performance in forestry in near future. Secondary group represents a part of the public that has an increased interest in forestry and forest conditions.
Expected outputs are information tools arising from individual activities, the promotion of which as part of information and disincentive campaign will address and train TG on how to adapt forests using the "creative forces of nature" and on the basis of principles of stabilisation in forest ecosystems, so that forests are able to mitigate climate change at local level.
Summary of project results
In forestry, and often in university teaching, we see a significant gap in sharing recent research findings—information crucial for leveraging natural processes to create resilient forests that can help mitigate local impacts of climate change. Our project aimed to bridge this gap by delivering essential insights to key groups—forestry professionals, influencers, and future leaders (students)—who are actively engaged or will soon engage in forestry activities. By doing so, we support the adoption of adaptive and mitigating practices in forestry.
The critical state of our forests is driven by several factors, including inadequate adaptation to the impacts of global climate change. A large portion of the public believes that forests in Czechia are not adapted to these changes and are therefore at risk. Yet, adaptive forest management can significantly enhance forests'' ability to mitigate the effects of climate change. Progressive foresters, who are at the forefront of introducing adaptation measures, have pointed to education as a barrier to wider adaptation efforts.
Our project addressed this by promoting adaptation and mitigation strategies in forestry, grounded in the latest insights from forest ecology. We shared essential findings from recent research and best practices with forestry professionals, and extended this knowledge to the broader public. We compiled this information into high-quality texts, graphics, and audiovisual materials, reaching our target groups through a dedicated promotional campaign.
The main outputs of our project are threefold:
- Comprehensive Text – A specialized book or textbook presenting the latest insights in forest ecology, essential for mitigating climate change effects.
- Documentary Film – An instructional documentary that brings the book’s topics to life through field demonstrations and expert commentary from researchers and practitioners.
- Outreach Campaign – A series of non-fiction articles on these critical topics, paired with a promotional campaign to effectively share this information with our target audiences.
Czech forestry is facing an unprecedented crisis that will significantly influence how well our commercial forests adapt to climate change and their ability to mitigate its effects at the local level. Many foresters find themselves uncertain in this challenging environment. For a long time, there has been a gap in literature addressing forest ecology in the Czech context.
The book we published as part of this project fills that gap, offering the latest insights and essential findings in forest ecology, along with practical examples for forestry practices. We anticipate that it will remain relevant for about ten years, with its core information being up-to-date for five years. This resource aims to educate and empower a new generation of foresters, ensuring the sustainability of our project''s results.