By Giorgio Alberti.
As Europe’s forests expand, a growing treasure trove of natural resources is emerging—one that extends far beyond traditional timber. Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) are gaining recognition as a vital economic, social, and environmental asset across the European Union. From edible fruits and mushrooms to medicinal herbs and resins, these resources support local economies, sustain traditions, and enhance biodiversity. Yet, despite their importance, clear guidelines for their collection and trade remain absent from EU policies, raising concerns about their sustainable management.
A Growing Opportunity
Europe’s forest coverage has surged by 30% since the 1950s, driven largely by socio-economic shifts such as agricultural land abandonment. As farming declines in marginal areas, forests—both natural and artificially planted—have reclaimed the landscape. In parallel, forest management strategies are evolving, with many regions shifting away from intensive timber production toward conservation-focused approaches, known as “proforestation”. We also investigate this rewilding approach in the WILDCARD project, where we for example investigate how biodiversity below and aboveground develops after the abandonment of forest management (more info here).
This transformation described above is unlocking new opportunities for rural communities. As abandoned farmland returns to nature, an abundance of wild foods, medicinal plants, and other valuable forest products becomes available. Moreover, proforestation encourages the accumulation of deadwood, creating ideal conditions for mushrooms and other fungi to thrive. The resurgence of long-forgotten plant species further enhances the diversity and economic potential of these landscapes.
Economic and Cultural Revival
For many rural and forest-dependent communities, NTFPs already provide a crucial source of income, particularly where large-scale timber production is not viable. Small-scale farmers, foragers, and local businesses benefit from the collection, processing, and sale of these natural goods, offering an alternative to traditional agricultural economies.
Beyond financial gains, the resurgence of NTFPs fosters a cultural revival. Many of these products have deep roots in traditional medicine, cuisine, and folklore. Their renewed presence in forests is helping to reconnect people with their natural heritage. Ecotourism is also flourishing, as activities like guided foraging tours, wildflower picking, and educational walks focused on medicinal plants attract visitors eager to engage with nature in a meaningful way.
Policy Gaps and Future Challenges
Despite their increasing importance, NTFPs remain an underregulated sector. While key EU policies such as the EU Forest Strategy, the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) acknowledge the value of these resources, there is little guidance on sustainable collection and trade. Without clear regulations, the risk of overexploitation looms, which can threaten the long-term availability of these products and the ecosystems that support them.
A Path Forward
To fully realize the potential of NTFPs, the EU must develop comprehensive policies that balance economic opportunity with conservation. Guidelines for sustainable harvesting, certification systems, and incentives for local businesses could help ensure that these resources remain abundant for future generations. As Europe’s forests continue to evolve, so too does the relationship between people and nature. By embracing a closer-to-nature approach and fostering a diversified forest economy, NTFPs can serve as a bridge between conservation and rural development—proving that forests offer far more than just timber.