New experimental data were generated on carbon storage differences between primary, secondary and managed forests across northern, central and southern Europe. High-resolution maps of forest age, structure and biodiversity were developed using national forest inventories, satellite-based disturbance records and predictive modelling, enabling improved understanding of how climate responses, management regimes and functional diversity shape forest carbon dynamics.
The functioning of forest ecosystems under different management, structural conditions and disturbance histories was investigated using flux-tower data, remote sensing and process-level assessments. Large datasets on carbon stocks, photosynthesis, water-use efficiency, microclimate and structural heterogeneity were analysed to identify drivers of resilience and mitigation.
Experiments and modelling on short-lived climate forcers clarified how afforestation and management influence biogenic emissions, aerosol formation and resulting climate effects. Soil studies across diverse European and Mediterranean forests revealed how thinning, drought and fire shape soil organic carbon storage.
The socio-economic dimensions of forest management and wood use were examined through a combination of life-cycle analysis, discrete-choice experiments and stakeholder interviews. A full life-cycle assessment quantified the climate benefits and trade-offs of shifting towards long-lived products and alternative bioenergy strategies. Large-scale data collection across multiple European regions captured consumer preferences for forest ecosystem services and wood products.
An integrated modelling framework combining agent-based land-use simulations, vegetation modelling and trait-based biodiversity projections was developed and applied across multiple future climate scenarios. High-resolution projections of forest development, ecosystem services, and disturbance impacts were produced for Europe to 2100. New institutional and policy-modelling components allow exploration of governance pathways and coherent policy packages to support future climate-resilient and biodiversity-friendly forests.
The management options that were previously explored together with stakeholders are now being tested through vegetation modelling to assess their implications for carbon sequestration, biodiversity and resilience to storms, drought, fires and pests.
