What is IUFRO and what does the iufro.org website cover?

Updated

IUFRO is the International Union of Forest Research Organizations, a global network that brings together forest scientists and research institutions. Its website, iufro.org, is the union's main public entry point for information about its structure, research activities, publications, events, and ways to get involved. It is aimed primarily at forest researchers, but also serves policymakers, students, and others who need credible forest science information.

What IUFRO is

IUFRO is a research-focused organization rather than a regulatory or funding body. Its core purpose is to connect forest researchers across countries and disciplines so that scientific knowledge can be shared, coordinated, and used to inform forest policy and management. The union's work spans the full range of forest science, from ecology and silviculture to forest products, social dimensions of forestry, and the links between forests and global challenges such as climate change and sustainability.

What the iufro.org website covers

The site functions as an information hub for the organization and its scientific community. Based on the site's stated purpose, visitors can expect to find:

  • Organizational information — what IUFRO is, how it is structured, and who leads it.
  • Research activities — the union's scientific work, typically organized through thematic divisions, task forces, and special programmes.
  • Publications and outputs — research reports, policy briefs, and other knowledge products produced or coordinated by IUFRO.
  • Events — congresses, conferences, and workshops that convene the forest research community.
  • Opportunities to engage — ways for researchers and institutions to participate in IUFRO's networks and activities.

Who the site is for

Audience What they typically use the site for
Forest researchers Finding research networks, publications, and events in their field
Policymakers and advisors Accessing science-based information relevant to forest policy
Students and early-career scientists Learning about the field and identifying opportunities to connect
Institutions and partners Understanding IUFRO's structure and how to collaborate

How to use it

If you are new to the site, start with the "About" section to understand the organization's mission and structure, then explore the research and publications areas for substantive content. If you are looking to participate, check the events and network pages for current opportunities. Because the site is a portal to a large international network, the most useful path depends on whether your goal is background understanding, finding specific research outputs, or making contact with a relevant group.