Sustainable forestry for Europe
The aim of the ROK-FOR project was to build a 'region of knowledge' for Europe's forestry sector to promote the Lead Market Initiative. This includes the sustainable use of natural resources and construction materials, renewable energy and bio-based products. ROK-FOR provided a cooperation and networking platform for regional forest business clusters from six countries – five of which from EU, linking the regions with international forums and funding opportunities to form a Europe-wide metacluster. This was achieved through the use of a joint strategy for development, resulting in a higher international profile and increased innovation and competitiveness. Project partners examined and created a database on the research and technological capacity of each regional cluster and compiled information concerning European, national and regional policies for sustainable management. The findings were published as an information brief titled 'Regional research capacities in ROK-FOR regions'. Regional research agendas were developed and stakeholders identified, together with research priorities and suggested political measures. The training needs for sustainable forest management, sustainable construction, bioenergy and bio-based products were also identified. A Joint Action Plan was defined at the European level to drive economic development through research and development (R&D) activities by mobilising funding and integrating small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into research activities. The project also mentored partners in the cross-border region of Croatia and Serbia, and investigated the possibility for cooperation between wood companies, e.g. in Croatia,, Catalonia and Finland. ROK-FOR has forged links along value chains between contact research organisations, forest industries, policymakers and regions facing similar challenges. The coordination and integration of research took into account regional needs, integrating ecological, technical, economic and societal aspects. ROK-FOR strengthened regional backgrounds for economy through the exchange of knowledge and experience and improved communication between public authorities and stakeholders regarding forest use. The importance and opportunities to apply sustainable forestry practices were emphasized in all regions to help providing Europe with renewable energy and sustainable construction and bio-based products with strong regional co-operation and innovations.
