Be wise, Be innovative, Be brave, BE LAURUS is the slogan of the new Laurus platform.
Laurus Network is a new dedicated initiative designed to support European associations of forest owners by offering innovation and training for forest owners and technical staff. The network is a space for cooperation and exchange of knowledge and a place where forest owners can find answers to questions such as:
How to make small forest farms more profitable and sustainable despite their fragmentation?
How to apply new forestry practices or new regulations?
What new business opportunities and ideas can we offer our members?
Laurus represents one of the first results of the SMURF - Forest Owners Project, in which Model Forest Istria participates as a partner. The network is a developing concept, shaped by the identification of specific needs within the sector of private forest owners.
- The Laurus network provides practical, specialized training and webinars focused on tools for improving knowledge and decision-making.
- Shares innovative approaches, new business models and real opportunities to increase profitability and sustainability in forest management.
- All Laurus Network resources are available in multiple languages.
- Provides a direct link to people who are successfully implementing these ideas.
Given that the exact number of forest owners and forest estates in Europe is not known, but is estimated at more than 20 million people, Laurus wants to initiate a change in the direction of identifying forest owners. In many countries, there are strong structural obstacles to forest management and investment in forests, such as the lack of an up-to-date cadastre or clear title deeds, where Laurus will offer solutions.
Laurus enables different organizations from many countries to share experiences, learn from each other, and on September 17, 2025, the first webinar of the network was held: "Voluntary carbon market and carbon storage projects in Europe."
Led by Pablo Rodríguez-Noriega Alonso (Preferred by Nature), the webinar explored how forest owners and land managers can seize opportunities in the voluntary carbon market, with insights into project types and examples of good practice from Europe.
Just four months after its launch, the Laurus Network has already gathered 317 members from 259 organizations in 59 countries — demonstrating the forestry community’s strong commitment to profitability, innovation, and sustainability.
Become a member of the Laurus Network and stay informed about upcoming webinars and news.
Register here!
You can learn more about the project on the website and social media:
X (Twitter): @SMURFProject
LinkedIn: SMURF Project
YouTube: SMURF Project Channel
Facebook: Facebook
