Forest Bathing : Exploring a New Business Opportunity for Small-Scale Private Forest Owners

Exploring new opportunities for small-scale forest owners.

As part of WP3 – Sustainable Adaptation of Successful Solutions to New EU Regions, the SMURF project explores new business opportunities for small-scale forest owners. The goal is to strengthen the long-term sustainability of private forests across Europe.

Forest bathing and health-oriented forest services

In this context, InnovaWood is investigating forest bathing and forest therapy as emerging nature-based services. These services can diversify forest-based income. They can also support the multifunctional use of forests. In addition, they help highlight the health and well-being benefits of nature.

As a result, these approaches contribute to more resilient forest management and stronger rural economies.

Preliminary findings were presented by Mercedes Rois at the IV Global Summit Science, Nature and Health. This event highlighted the growing importance of health-oriented forest services. It also showed their potential for sustainable rural development. Finally, it reinforced the link between people and nature.