Área Forestal Agregada Pilot Project in Panasqueira, Portugal

Small forestlandowners in Águeda, Portugal, collaborate through the AFA pilot project to overcome fragmentation, enhance sustainability, and improve compliance with regulations. Managed by AFBV, 15 properties totaling 12 hectares are aggregated under shared guidelines, boosting efficiency, productivity, and ecological resilience. The initiative supports fire and pest risk reduction, ecosystem preservation, and forest diversification. Since 2018, seven AFA projects have been launched, averaging two per year. Challenges include resolving historical disputes, securing legal titles, financing for under-resourced owners, and accessing public subsidies. Technical and legal support is essential, with PEFCC certification ensuring market recognition. Long-term success relies on supportive policies providing legal, financial, and technical frameworks. AFBV’s capacity in technical, legal, and organisational support is critical, underpinned by trust and proactive engagement. The model highlights the need for systemic support to enable sustainable, resilient forest management in fragmented landscapes.