Italy rolls out €10.3 million Puglia reforestation plan as experts demand far larger forest funding

The Puglia region’s “Foreste di Puglia” programme has received 156 project proposals worth a total of €10.3 million, more than double the initial €5 million allocation. The proposals, concentrated in the provinces of Lecce and Foggia, aim to create new permanent forests, develop arboriculture for timber, and implement agro‑forestry systems that combine trees with crops.

Regional Agriculture and Rural Development Assessor Francesco Paolicelli said, “The numbers of applications confirm that we have taken the right direction and that the agricultural world of Puglia is ready to invest in models that combine development, sustainability and territory protection.”

Meanwhile, the Union of Mountain Communities (Uncem) warned that Italy’s overall forest funding is far insufficient. Current state budgets provide only €5 million per year for forests, with a one‑off €100 million emergency decree in 2021 that was largely spent on short‑term measures. Uncem president Marco Bussone criticised the spending, stating, “Investments are low and often misused; resources are diverted to emergencies while preventive actions remain minimal.” The organization calls for €1 billion over the next three years to implement a national forest strategy, proper planning for 12 million hectares, and stronger fire‑prevention infrastructure.