The agreement aims to enhance poplar cultivation as a strategic supply chain which, according to FederlegnoArredo data, currently provides 45% of Italy’s industrial timber while covering only 1% of the country’s forested surface. Poplar cultivation therefore plays a vital role for the wood, paper, and furniture industries.

This renewed commitment seeks to restore centrality to a cultivation, that not only ensures growth and future development but also contributes to hydrogeological safety and environmental sustainability. In this perspective, the relaunch of poplar cultivation is expected to be closely linked to the recognition of carbon credits for the supply chain, highlighting the environmental value of poplar in CO₂ storage.

Nicoletta Azzi, Vice-President of Assopannelli and CEO of Panguaneta, stated:
“Only through a systemic approach will it be possible to reinforce the role of poplar cultivation. Targeted incentives will be crucial to expand cultivated areas and to facilitate access to European funds, recognising poplar as a strategic resource for the green economy and ecological transition”.

Photo credits: Massimo Gorreri