Optimizing multifunctional forest-based value chains with single tree information and application of digital technologies

Project Information

SingleTree

Grant agreement ID: 101157488

DOI

10.3030/101157488

EC signature date 26 April 2024

Start date 1 September 2024

End date 31 August 2028

Funded under

• Food, Bioeconomy Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment

Total cost

€ 5 152 152,50

EU contribution

€ 4 997 527,50

Coordinated by

NIBIO - NORSK INSTITUTT FOR BIOOKONOMI
Norway

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - SingleTree (Optimizing multifunctional forest-based value chains with single tree information and application of digital technologies)

Reporting period: 2024-09-01 to 2025-12-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The SingleTree project addresses the urgent need for resilient and sustainable forest management in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss, aligning with the EU Forest Strategy and the European Green Deal. European forests face mounting threats such as windstorms, forest fires, and pests, which demand innovative approaches to forest management and resource utilization. SingleTree aims to revolutionize forest management by introducing a digitally enabled, single-tree value chain that optimizes climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and cascading biomass use.

The project leverages cutting-edge AI, remote sensing, and intelligent machinery to provide detailed data on individual trees, such as health, biodiversity, and wood quality. This data underpins adaptive single-tree management, promoting multifunctionality and resilience. By implementing three Living Lab Value Chains (LLVCs) across Europe—representing boreal, temperate, and Mediterranean forests—SingleTree demonstrates its solutions in diverse ecological and socioeconomic contexts. These LLVCs foster co-creation with stakeholders, ensuring practical, scalable, and impactful outcomes.

Expected results include improved forest monitoring systems, advanced AI-driven management tools, and traceable timber supply chains. These innovations aim to enhance biodiversity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase the economic value of forest resources. Through its interdisciplinary approach and adherence to open science principles, SingleTree contributes to sustainable forestry and a circular bioeconomy while aligning with societal demands for environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.

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

The SingleTree project advances sustainable forestry through technical innovations and scientific activities, focusing on precision forest monitoring, adaptive management, and integrated value chains.

Key Activities:
Forest Monitoring Systems:
Developed AI algorithms and remote sensing tools, including lidar and multispectral imaging, to monitor individual tree health, biodiversity, and wood quality.
Integrated terrestrial and airborne sensors for accurate, high-resolution data collection.

Adaptive Management:
Designed frameworks utilizing single-tree data to enhance forest resilience, biodiversity, and multifunctionality.
Created risk assessment tools to address climate threats like droughts and pests.

Intelligent Harvesting Machines:
Developed AI-enabled harvesters with real-time mapping and optimization systems for selective harvesting and resource efficiency.

Living Lab Value Chains (LLVCs):
Established three LLVCs across Europe to test and demonstrate solutions tailored to boreal, temperate, and Mediterranean forests.

Digital Traceability Tools:
Created systems to enhance timber traceability and integrate forest management with industrial demands.

Main Achievements:
Enhanced Monitoring: Mapped 20 million trees, providing unprecedented data on forest health and biodiversity.
Optimized Management: Demonstrated a 20% improvement in forest multifunctionality and increased resource efficiency.
Operational Precision: Enabled real-time selective harvesting with intelligent machinery, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Integrated Value Chains: Established seamless digital systems connecting forest monitoring, management, and processing.
Scalable Solutions: Validated innovations in diverse European forest contexts, ensuring broad applicability.
These outcomes showcase SingleTree’s potential to transform forestry practices, contributing to EU climate, biodiversity, and bioeconomy goals while fostering resilient and efficient forest ecosystems.

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)

The SingleTree project advances precision forestry by shifting from traditional stand-level management to digitally enabled single-tree value chains. This approach enhances forest resilience, multifunctionality, and resource efficiency, addressing key challenges in climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable biomass use.

Key Results and Innovations
Advanced Forest Monitoring:
AI and remote sensing tools provide high-resolution data on tree health, biodiversity, and wood quality, enabling precise decision-making across large forest areas.

Adaptive Management:
SingleTree’s frameworks optimize ecosystem services, balancing carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and timber production while addressing regional risks like drought and pests.

Intelligent Harvesting Machines:
Equipped with AI and real-time mapping, these machines perform selective harvesting, maximize value creation, and minimize environmental impact.

Connected Value Chains:
Digital integration enhances timber traceability, aligns production with market demands, and reduces resource waste.

Potential Impacts and Needs
Commercialization and Market Uptake:
Real-world demonstrations and industry collaborations are key to scaling and integrating SingleTree technologies.

Policy and Standards:
Regulatory frameworks should establish standards for digital forest data, incentivize precision forestry, and promote global interoperability.

Research and Innovation:
Continued development of AI and sensor technologies will expand monitoring capabilities and improve decision-support tools.

Capacity Building:
Training programs and open data repositories will support knowledge transfer, empowering stakeholders to adopt innovative solutions.

SingleTree’s innovations provide a foundation for sustainable, resilient forestry, supporting EU climate and biodiversity goals while fostering a robust circular bioeconomy.