The Launch of Unasylva 255 - Restoring the Mediterranean region: status and challenges

Rome, Italy - July 25, 2024

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) launched a new issue of Unasylva its international journal of forestry, focusing on the ongoing efforts to restore Mediterranean forests. Unasylva 255 - Restoring the Mediterranean region: status and challenges not only addresses urgent restoration needs, but also presents socio-economic issues and several important topics that are key to the future of restoration in the region.  

The first issue of Unasylva focused on Mediterranean forestry was published 25 years ago in 1999, and the second in 2014. The newly launched issue aligns with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030) (UN Decade) and the Agadir Commitment of 2017, which aims to restore 8 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. It reflects the region's growing commitment to restoration and its contribution to global goals. 

During the launch of the publication, the Director of FAO’s Forestry Division, Mr Zhimin Wu, stated that “this issue of Unasylva provides a unique platform for the Mediterranean community to showcase their collaborative restoration work and highlight the region’s dynamic approach, supported by strong partnerships and cooperation”. 

Unasylva 255 is divided into three main sections and features 13 expert articles that delve into the progress and challenges of ecosystem restoration across the Mediterranean. The first section Past and Current Regional Dynamics, reviews the history and ongoing efforts in Mediterranean restoration and presents the work of the Secretariat of Silva Mediterranea supported by Italy. The second section, Key Topics for Restoration, explores critical issues and strategies for effective restoration. The third section, The Future of Restoration, looks ahead, widening the approach and including socio-economic issues affecting and influencing the region’s forest sector, such as gender disparities and youth employment.  

The key messages of Unasylva 255 emphasize the serious challenges the Mediterranean region faces due to climate change, with rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns threatening its ecosystems. Experts underline the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to protect and restore these vital areas. The region's recent recognition as a World Restoration Flagship under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration further underscores its leadership in environmental efforts, a distinction expected to attract increased support and investment for restoration projects. As wildfires become more frequent and intense, authorities are advocating for stronger fire prevention and recovery strategies, including improved early warning systems and greater community involvement. Post-fire efforts will prioritize protecting biodiversity and maintaining healthy soils. Additionally, empowering women and involving young people in these initiatives are highlighted essential to ensure long-term sustainability and environmental stewardship in the region. 

The French and Spanish editions will be released during the 8th Mediterranean Forest Week, taking place in Barcelona, Spain, from 4 to 8 November 2024. 

The Silva Mediterranea Secretariat and the Forest and Landscape Restoration Mechanism extend their gratitude to all the contributors and authors whose expertise and dedication have brought this edition to life. Their work is crucial in advancing restoration efforts and fostering a resilient Mediterranean forest community. 

Satia Ras and Valentina Garavaglia