Eucalyptus in Portugal: Boosting Sustainability and Innovation

Eucalyptus is highly valued by Portuguese forest owners due to its adaptability, rapid growth, and market demand. However, sustainable practices are crucial, especially given the challenges of managing small plantations with limited knowledge and technical support.

To address these issues, the GO-IEPE project developed a decision-support tool that optimizes eucalyptus stand installation, providing tailored information for better practices, cost comparison, and productivity estimation.

Key Benefits:

• Eco-friendly land preparation techniques

• Reduced establishment costs

• Enhanced forest productivity

• Adapted equipment for minimal environmental impact

• Increased awareness of soil importance

Collaborative Efforts:

The project involved diverse experts, including forest owners, technicians, researchers, and entrepreneurs. Key partners included forestry associations, higher education institutes, and specialized companies.

Scalability and Adaptability:

GO-IEPE's methods are adaptable for other species and regions, with successful applications reported for Pinus. Integrated into the e-globulus.pt platform, the project now offers comprehensive management information, ensuring flexibility for future growth and adaptation.

Market Value Creation:

GO-IEPE has increased efficiency in eucalyptus stand installation, reducing costs and enhancing productivity. It has also driven innovation in soil mobilization tools, contributing to their diversification and growth, facilitated by changes in legislation and market demands for sustainable forest management.

For more details, visit iepe.pt and our YouTube channel.

Dissemination and Impact:

Results were shared through leaflets, a web page, YouTube, and events like webinars and workshops. Contributions include:

• Presentations at national and international conferences

• Publications in academic journals

• Several academic theses