Evolution of wood supply chains in Italy: structural criticalities, market dynamics and prospects for the circular bioeconomy

Abstract

The increasing interest in forest products, particularly wood as a renewable and low-environmental-impact raw material, represents a strategic opportunity for the Italian forest sector. This trend fits within the framework of national and European objectives on decarbonization and the development of a circular bioeconomy. This contribution summarizes the main elements that emerged from a recent scientific and institutional debate on the topic, analyzing structural criticalities, market transformations, regulatory constraints, and opportunities for revitalizing national wood supply chains. The analysis highlights the need for integrated forest planning, the strengthening of production structures, and the modernization of information and regulatory systems in order to sustainably increase domestic supply and enhance the multifunctionality of Italian forests and forest plantations.