SOFOR 4.0 Operational Group: Increasing the competitiveness of the forestry sector through horizontal clustering and vertical integration

This Operational Group was created with the goal of developing IT tools that improve sustainable forest management and support decision-making, reducing costs and optimizing resources.

In this regard, the project aims to create a comprehensive forest management system based on GIS technology and a forest certification management and traceability tool (both PEFC and FSC). Furthermore, it is committed to creating a network of forestry intermediaries throughout Galicia who will apply the innovative model, actively acting in the grouping of owners and their vertical integration into the forestry chain. These intermediaries, using the tools generated, will be able to forecast profitability, generate contractual relationship models, and ensure that all parties see joint management as a clear opportunity.

This initiative has a positive impact on the sustainable management of natural resources and, specifically, on climate change mitigation in forestry operations. The implementation of sustainable forest management improves the efficiency of water and energy use. The vertical integration of the forestry chain facilitates the use of renewable energy sources. Furthermore, this initiative incorporates ICT (specifically, comprehensive management tools) into the Galician forestry sector.