Forest Storytelling and Engagement for Change

How can forest stories make a difference in forest restoration work? Who and what do forest stories include, and how does this shape action towards different kinds of forest futures? Forest Storytelling and Engagement for Change offers a range of practical tools and starting points to support those living and working with forests to map which kinds of stories are told and to explore how to tell stories that can make a difference. This guide builds on our research and engagement activities as part of the EU Green Deal project SUPERB to upscale ecosystem restoration across Europe, including in 12 demonstration areas in 12 countries. As part of this project we have developed approaches for mapping forest stories, understanding the contexts of forest restoration, and seeing how stories can help to deepen and broaden participation around restoration efforts. The following pages provide activities and advice to those with an interest in the role of stories in shaping forests – whether you are a policy-maker interested in understanding who and what might be missing from your plans, a forest practitioner interested in how people are engaging with your site, or a community group interested in what kinds of stories there are about forests in your area.