Wallonia: Nurturing a Future for Innovation in Belgium

Wallonia, the southern region of Belgium, is a landscape marked by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and a strong cultural connection to its natural environment. Forests cover approximately 33% of the region's territory, shaping both its identity and its economy. These forested areas include a rich mix of deciduous and coniferous species, with hardwoods—particularly oak—playing a significant role in regional land use and timber production.

The ownership structure of Wallonia's forests is notably fragmented. Around half of the forested land is publicly owned, while the remaining half belongs to approximately 84,000 private owners, many of whom manage plots averaging just three hectares. This pattern of small-scale ownership presents challenges for coordinated forest management and for maximizing the sustainable use of resources. Despite these structural limitations, Wallonia’s forests remain vital to biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and the supply of natural materials.

The forestry and wood processing industry has long been present in the region, shaped by tradition, craftsmanship, and market demand. While the number of sawmills has declined in recent decades, the sector continues to maintain a wide array of activities, from timber harvesting and primary processing to furniture-making and energy production. The region’s forests are not only a source of raw material but also a cultural and ecological asset, deeply woven into Wallonia’s sense of place and regional development.