A unique forestry partnership between Türkiye and France is providing valuable insights into how European forests may adapt to climate change in the decades ahead. Supported by Agence Française de Développement (AFD) between 2019 and 2022, the programme brought together Turkish and French forestry institutions to strengthen sustainable forest management, protect biodiversity and build resilience to rising temperatures, drought and emerging forest threats.
The initiative was implemented in collaboration with Türkiye’s General Directorate of Forestry and ONF International, with technical expertise from French research and forestry bodies including INRAE and the French National Forest Office. By leveraging Türkiye’s climatic conditions, which are expected to resemble those of mainland France by mid-century, the programme effectively turned Turkish forests into open-air laboratories for anticipating the future challenges facing French forest ecosystems.
A central focus of the partnership was the exchange and testing of forest genetic resources. Oak and pine seeds from different regions of Türkiye and France were planted in pilot plots across both countries, allowing researchers to observe how tree species from varied origins respond to contrasting climatic conditions. Early findings indicate that several oak species show strong tolerance to drought, offering important data for safeguarding forests against the impacts of global warming.
In Türkiye, maritime pine seeds originating from Corsica were planted in regions such as Yalova, where they demonstrated rapid growth and resistance to insect pests. The strongest trees are being identified to produce seeds better adapted to warmer and drier environments, supporting future reforestation efforts in both countries. In parallel, Turkish saplings have been introduced into experimental plots in France, where their development will be monitored over the next decade to enhance forest diversity and resilience.
Beyond long-term research, the partnership also delivered immediate benefits through improved forest management practices, pest control, fire prevention and the promotion of ecotourism. In the Oylat forest near Bursa, a new hiking trail was developed with technical support from French foresters, combining public access with educational signage to raise awareness about biodiversity conservation and responsible forest use.
Together, these efforts highlight how international cooperation and science-based forestry can help countries prepare for climate change while protecting ecosystems today. The Türkiye–France partnership continues to inform research, policy and practice, offering a model for climate-resilient forest management in Mediterranean and temperate regions alike.
