The Institute of Mediterranean Forest Ecosystems of ELGO DIMITRA research highlights the critical role of forest plant biodiversity in ecosystem functions and local development. Ecological resilience and socio-economic revitalisation of rural areas can be effectively promoted through science-based conservation and sustainable use practices.
The plant biodiversity of Greek forests constitutes a vital component of the country’s natural capital, encompassing a remarkable array of species, from ancient fir (Abies sp.) and oak (Quercus sp.) trees to aromatic herbs and rare endemic plants. This biodiversity is of aesthetic and ecological significance and holds considerable potential for contributing to sustainable rural development.
Forest plant species play critical functional roles in ecosystem processes, including soil stabilisation, hydrological regulation, carbon sequestration, and providing habitat and food resources for wildlife. Additionally, many forest plants exhibit valuable medicinal, aromatic, and nutritional properties, supporting opportunities for their sustainable exploitation in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, gastronomy, and nature-based tourism.
Harnessing the potential of forest plant biodiversity can stimulate local economies, particularly in mountainous and semi-mountainous regions affected by demographic decline and economic marginalisation. The cultivation of endemic and native aromatic and medicinal plants, such as Origanum vulgare (oregano), Sideritis sp. (mountain tea), Salvia fruticosa (sage), and Lavandula sp. (lavender), based on local genetic resources, can enhance the added value of regional products while promoting employment and income generation.
Furthermore, the development of ecotourism activities, including the creation of botanical trails, environmental education programmes, guided herb collection experiences, and the establishment of botanical gardens, offers additional pathways for supporting local communities and raising environmental awareness.
However, rigorous scientific approaches must underpin the conservation and sustainable use of forest plant biodiversity. Threats such as overharvesting, overgrazing, wildfires, and the impacts of climate change necessitate implementing evidence-based management plans that prioritise both the protection and sustainable utilisation of forest resources. Endemic and geographically restricted species are particularly vulnerable and require targeted conservation measures.
Critical to these efforts are systematic activities such as biodiversity mapping, population monitoring, ecological niche assessment, and the study of plant–environment interactions. These scientific foundations are essential for informing conservation actions and ensuring that the sustainable use of plant resources does not compromise ecosystem integrity.
A noteworthy practice is the promotion of natural forest regeneration using locally adapted plant species, which preserves genetic diversity and strengthens ecosystem resilience against future environmental pressures. Reforestation and ecological restoration programmes should prioritise native species propagation through local nurseries, creating a virtuous conservation cycle and sustainable economic development.
The sustainable management of forest plant biodiversity in Greece represents an urgent conservation imperative and a strategic opportunity for fostering resilient rural economies. Through science-based, respectful, and integrated approaches, it is possible to safeguard this invaluable natural heritage while simultaneously promoting socio-economic revitalisation in forest-dependent communities.
References
Solomou, Alexandra D., et al. “Assessment of Herbaceous Plant Composition, Diversity, and Indicator Species in the Juniperus drupacea Forest Openings of the Mountain Parnonas in Greece.” Sustainability 15.18 (2023): 13765.
Solomou, Alexandra D. “Utilization of forest landscapes for biodiversity conservation in a Mediterranean ecosystem: A case study of Greece.” Creating Resilient Landscapes in an Era of Climate Change. Routledge, 2022. 251–257.
Solomou, Alexandra D., et al. “Alien Vascular Flora in Mediterranean Terrestrial Landscapes of Greece.” International Conference on Mediterranean Geosciences Union. Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland, 2021.
Solomou, Alexandra, et al. “Vascular Plants of Oiti and Parnassos National Parks of Greece, as Important Components of Biodiversity and Touring Experiences.” HAICTA. 2020.
Solomou, Alexandra D., et al. “Importance, utilization and health of urban forests: A review.” Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca 47.1 (2019): 10–16.
Solomou, Alexandra D., et al. “Medicinal and aromatic plants diversity in Greece and their future prospects: A review.” Agricultural Science 4.1 (2016): 9–21.
