Societal perceptions of forests and forest restoration in Europe

Forests provide essential ecological and socio-economic benefits, yet forest restoration efforts often overlook how people perceive and engage with these ecosystems. Understanding public perceptions is crucial for designing effective restoration strategies, particularly in Europe, given its social, and ecological diversity. While previous research has recorded forest and restoration benefits, less is known about how individuals perceive these benefits, engage with forests, and participate in restoration efforts. We conducted structured key informant interviews with twenty individuals from selected regions in Sweden, Scotland, Germany, Serbia/Croatia, and Spain. Thematic analysis revealed two predominant perspectives on forests: one as “encompassing everything” and the other as “unique places.” Furthermore, results indicate that past restoration efforts often prioritised biodiversity conservation and hazard mitigation, while other forest benefits and uses were less integrated into these efforts. These findings highlight the need for inclusive restoration that reflects societal attitudes and aligns with community values.

Key findings
We found two perspectives on forests: one as "encompassing everything" and the other as "unique places." Public participation in forest restoration varies across regions, with different engagement forms.

Key takeaway
Effective forest restoration requires context-sensitive approaches and the inclusion of diverse societal perspectives. One-size-fits-all solutions fall short—restoration efforts must be shaped by local values, experiences, and expectations.