Silviculture: landscape, cultural and social functions of forests

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss the emerging role of urban forestry at European and national level, placing emphasis to the cultural and social aspects of forest resources. In Italy, urban and peri-urban forests are generally considered important places for promoting social activities. In this context, foresters and urban foresters should act using the traditional forestry knowledge while encouraging the social and cultural aspects, including communication, information and involvement of users. This emerging approach needs to be supported by an organic collaboration with other disciplines and research methods.