Published on Dendronatura, n. 2/2025
Forest Care Initiatives (FCIs) use forest environments and resources to enhance health and well-being, foster social inclusion, and generate new local economies.
The paper, published in Dendronatura and authored by Ilaria Doimo (Etifor | Benefit Company) and Davide Pettenella (University of Padua), explores the socio-economic potential of FCIs, showing how they can support territorial regeneration and create new green jobs.
Key insights
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FCIs encompass practices such as forest bathing, outdoor education, therapeutic and cultural activities.
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They improve health and well-being, create new green employment opportunities, and strengthen sustainable forest management.
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In Italy, over 200 initiatives have been identified, mostly grassroots and still lacking a clear regulatory framework or shared standards.
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To scale up, the sector needs institutional recognition, dedicated funding mechanisms, and robust impact monitoring systems.
Etifor’s role
Etifor supports public bodies and private companies in developing Forest Care strategies — from mapping and planning to economic valuation of benefits, governance models, and sustainable financing solutions.
