Sustainable Management models and valUe chains foR small Forests

Project Information

SMURF

Grant agreement ID: 101135516

DOI

10.3030/101135516

EC signature date 14 November 2023

Start date 1 January 2024

End date 31 December 2027

Funded under

• Food, Bioeconomy Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment

Total cost

€ 5 423 471,25

EU contribution

€ 5 423 471,25

Coordinated by

FUNDACION CENTRO DE SERVICIOS Y PROMOCION FORESTAL Y DE SU INDUSTRIA DE CASTILLA Y LEON
Spain

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - SMURF (Sustainable Management models and valUe chains foR small Forests)

Reporting period: 2024-01-01 to 2025-06-30

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The SMURF project aligns with the European Forest Strategy 2030 by delivering practical solutions for Small Forest Holdings. It addresses long-standing challenges such as fragmented ownership, low profitability, and the lack of accurate data on the number and distribution of forest owners, which remains unknown in many European countries.
Running over 48 months, SMURF brings forward a portfolio of innovative and sustainable solutions specifically designed for small-forest properties. These solutions combine a variety of approaches—ranging from new forest and business management models, to novel policy measures and tailored training programmes. Through the active involvement of the entire forest-based value chain, SMURF will deliver:

1. New tailor-made business models for both wood and non-wood forest products.

2. Innovative forest management models grounded in Close-to-Nature Silviculture (CNS) practices.

3. A standardised and digitalised PES system focused on carbon sequestration and biodiversity.

4. Support structures and instruments specifically designed for small-forest holders.

5. Training, guidance, and recommendations for SFH owners and other relevant stakeholders.

Ultimately, the overarching goal of SMURF is to maintain and further develop Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) within the framework of Multifunctional Forestry. This approach ensures that forests can fulfil their diverse roles—ranging from biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation to supporting rural livelihoods and preserving Europe’s cultural and natural landscapes—with the bioeconomy acting as a key driver to unlock the economic potential of SFHs and strengthen the role of forestry as a sustainable engine of regional development across Europe.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

SMURF has developed a comprehensive conceptual framework for the European forest sector, covering value chains, support systems, forest ownership and holding definitions, and collaboration among Forest Owners’ Organisations (FOOs). Building on this, a classification of 76 types of forest entities and a social and organisational map were produced, considering wood, biomass, non-wood forest products (NWFP), and ecosystem services.
Preliminary legal and financial reports for 25 EU Member States have been prepared, providing an overview of frameworks and incentives for Small Forest Holdings (SFHs). These reports are being reviewed by engaged FOOs and will inform future deliverables.
The first cascade funding call engaged 35 FOOs from 16 countries, with surveys launched to characterise FOOs and SFHs, while the second call focuses on supporting pilot implementations of business models, carbon projects, and demonstration stands. Technical specifications and award criteria ensure that selected projects will validate innovative, scalable, and sustainable approaches in real-world settings.
Seventeen emblematic tree species and 14 Close-to-Nature Silviculture (CNS) practices have been identified across EU biogeographical regions. Strategies for quantifying and validating CNS models, mapping ecosystem service indicators, and integrating biodiversity measures are being implemented.
The project has designed a standardised PES system focused on carbon sequestration and biodiversity. Digital infrastructures, including blockchain-based traceability and a prototype trading platform, are under development to support verifiable carbon credits.
The Laurus Network, a knowledge-sharing hub for FOOs, has been launched with a dedicated website and social media channels. Networking efforts have established connections with research institutions, authorities, NGOs, and international organisations.
The 1st European Conference on Small Forest Holdings (Rome, May 2025) gathered over 200 participants, launched the Laurus Network, and consolidated stakeholder dialogue on SFH challenges and opportunities.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

SMURF has produced the first harmonised social and organisational map of the European forest sector and consolidated legal and financial information for SFHs across 25 EU countries, going beyond previous fragmented data sets.
Over 30 potential business opportunities have been identified, classified, and illustrated with good practice examples in new technologies, non-wood forest products, damaged wood utilisation, and ecosystem services, providing actionable pathways for sustainable and profitable management.
Technical specifications for pilots ensure real-world testing and validation of innovative approaches. Key needs for further uptake include harmonisation of legal and financial frameworks, demonstration of business model feasibility, standardisation of carbon and PES schemes, capacity-building, and market access.

Group Photo from the Monte Amiata Field Trip, part of the 3rd Project General Assembly, Florence, It

1st European Small Forest Holdings Conference – Group Photo at FAO Headquarters

Snapshot from the 2nd Project General Assembly, Seinäjoki, Finland – Partners in Productive Working