Urban forests can support municipal climate action while delivering a broad range of additional ecosystem services. This study assesses the city of Sárvár, Hungary (1,125 ha of forests and 470 ha of other tree-covered areas) to quantify carbon-related ecosystem services and monetize selected non-market benefits. Carbon stocks and sequestration were estimated by tree species group using National Forestry Database records (2010–2023), Copernicus Tree Cover Density data, and IPCC greenhouse-gas inventory methodology. Harvested wood products and material- and energy-substitution effects were also included. Urban forests and trees stored 366,667 tons of CO2 in 2023, corresponding to a carbon-stock value of EUR 18.8 million. When biomass dynamics, harvested wood products, and substitution effects were considered jointly, the net mitigation effect offset 9.3% of total municipal greenhouse-gas emissions. Using a benefit-transfer approach and a 2% social discount rate, the capitalized value of biodiversity-related ecosystem services amounted to EUR 11.89 million, while the capitalized recreational value reached EUR 5.95 million. Overall, the findings suggest that Sárvár’s urban forests operate as multifunctional natural capital assets providing climate mitigation and welfare benefits that are directly relevant to policy design, evidence-based urban planning, and ecosystem accounting.
Phenology is a key bioindicator of climate change; however, the genetic and environmental drivers of phenological traits still remain poorly understood. The authors analyzed large-scale patterns of bud burst and bud set (i.e. of vegetation period length) in Eastern European Scots pine provenances to assess the influence of climatic factors and the role of inheritance in phenological adaptation. Phenological traits were correlated with climatic variables and modelled with linear transfer regression analyses using historical data from provenance experiments in Hungary. The results demonstrate that phenological traits of Scots pine populations exhibit a genetically determined clinal variation pattern and strong correlations between bud burst, bud set and temperature-related variables. The findings challenge opinions that emphasize plasticity in spring phenology and photoperiodic control of autumn growth cessation. The hypothesis of rapid plastic adaptation to changing climatic conditions is not supported by our results. The patterns of phenotypic diversity require a critical consideration in adaptive forest management strategies.
This study examines the economic performance of an agroforestry system applied in Africa and complementary insights into its social and ecological implications, focusing on the intercropping of macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia) and Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica). The research was conducted on a 1.6-hectare area at Pamo Mangala Farm in Zambia between 2021 and 2024. During the study, we assessed and compared the effects of different planting systems on farm productivity, including homogeneous and heterogeneous layouts. The results show that intercropping can increase farm profitability through production diversification while supporting sustainable farming practices; it may also have positive effects on local employment and environmental conditions.
Improved Forest Management (IFM) is expected to become a key component of the EU’s Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF), yet baseline setting, additionality assessment, and carbon-removal quantification remain methodologically challenging. This study presents a demonstrative IFM case using a 4.7-hectare Scots pine–hornbeam stand in Western Hungary, combining extended rotation with climate-adaptive regeneration. A hypothetical baseline was derived from National Forestry Database data, while carbon sequestration was modelled using the Forest Industry Carbon Model with a 15% uncertainty correction. Project-related emissions were quantified under the IPCC guidelines. Over 2024–2055, total biomass carbon increased by 99 tC, with regeneration contributing an additional 44 tC. After deducting baseline sequestration and minor implementation emissions (<1% of total removals), the project generates 201 eligible carbon credits, equivalent to 10,074 EUR (7,255 EUR at present value). The case study illustrates how CRCF-aligned IFM assessments can be conducted in practice, stressing the importance of baseline definitions, the strong net-positive carbon balance of IFM measures, and the potential economic viability of such projects under forthcoming EU carbon removal standards.
Vegetation belts may offer an effective and economical solution for reducing noise pollution as an environmental impact where sufficiently large areas are available. However, the complexity of the attenuation process makes choosing the right plant species or variety a complicated task. That studies have employed different methods to examine the noise-reducing properties of individual hedges and shrubby groups of trees only complicates matters further. The present study interprets and summarises the achieved results via an analysis of the relevant literature using statistical methods. We focused on the following areas: (1) commonness and value range to compare the general data of the selected studies, (2) location types and the measurement layouts, (3) the parameters used to describe the vegetation strips, and (4) the parameters used for noise measurement and attenuation calculation. In addition to the diversity of the examined environment and vegetation in the studies, the description of the implementation and physical characteristics of the measurements was, in many cases, incomplete in several aspects. At the same time, the differences between the employed parameters and their evaluation resulted in partially comparable noise attenuation data, thereby increasing the inhomogeneity in the literature.
Wood is an economically, culturally, and ecologically significant material that manifests through complex perceptual and psychological responses in the context of premium furniture consumption. This study introduces the Composite Material Resonance Index (CMRI). The index derives from an empirically validated impact model grounded in neuroaesthetics and identity psychology. It integrates sensory, emotional, value-based, and identity-related experiences associated with wood-based furniture consumption within a unified measurement framework. A quantitative study conducted on an international sample of 145 respondents operationalizes attachment to wood material across 11 phases and nine indices, from initial perception to integration with self-identity. The results indicate that visual proportionality, perceived naturalness, and identity resonance exert a significant influence on consumer identification, emotional engagement, and purchase intention. The CMRI serves as a strategic decision-making tool for product development, brand communication, and forest-based sustainability innovations.
This study investigates the sensitivity of five statistical tests (CE, quadrat 3x3, CDF, MAD, and DCLF) in detecting anomalies within originally random tree distributions in forested areas. By simulating tree disappearance due to various anomalies, the effectiveness of these tests is assessed across different tree densities and anomaly magnitudes. Results indicate that the quadrat test and Monte Carlo-based tests (MAD and DCLF) are significantly more sensitive to deviations from randomness than the CE and CDF tests, particularly in denser forests with higher levels of tree disappearance. The findings underline the importance of selecting appropriate statistical tools for analyzing spatial patterns in ecological research.
The University of Sopron has developed the Sustainable University Model of the University of Sopron (SUM-UoS) based on its best practices and employing a systemic approach that incorporates sustainability criteria. The Institutional Sustainability Strategy defines the university’s vision and SMART goals, for which it assigns an Implementation Program. Through university measures and work packages (WP), the model supports the implementation, operation, and continuous development of a Sustainable University. The SUM-UoS exists within a pyramid model aiming to create a university operating culture that prioritizes sustainability and expands it to other sectors and wider societal circles. Stemming from its Sustainability Strategy, the university has announced its “Sound of Earth University of Sopron” Implementation Program (SOE-IP), which is under trademark. The implementation program of measures aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provides a framework for the complex implementation and continuous development of the institutional sustainability culture. An essential element of the SOE-IP is the “University as a Living Lab Concept” approach.
This study presents a financial modelling analysis of licenced forestry specialist services and forestry operation services based on skidding and forwarding. An enterprise needs to provide forestry specialist services on 1,500–2,500 ha and achieve 36,000–37,000 EUR turnover to finance the fulltime employment of one person and to attain 10% profit on turnover. Forestry contractors that harvest wood by skidding with a farm tractor need to harvest 4,300–5,500 m3 annually and generate 120,000–130,000 EUR income per year, while an output of 7,700–10,100 m3 of harvested wood and 210,000– 220,000 EUR of income is needed in forwarding.
This study explores the potential of using woodcarving ventilation panels to enhance natural ventilation (NV) in buildings, particularly in extreme climate conditions in two different locations: Johor, Malaysia, and Szombathely, Hungary. The main aim is to assess how these panels contribute to airflow dynamics and temperature regulation within buildings. The research employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to model airflow and temperature distribution in identical building models subjected to high wind speeds and temperatures, simulating worst-case scenarios. The findings reveal that while Johor experiences moderate wind speeds resulting in steady but less dynamic airflow, Szombathely benefits from stronger winds, producing more effective ventilation and cooling. These results suggest that woodcarving panels can improve airflow and thermal comfort but are more effective in areas with higher wind speeds. The study concludes that while NV is beneficial, integrating HVAC systems is essential for maintaining optimal comfort in extreme conditions.
This study examines environmental attitudes toward the production and utilization of firewood. A telephone survey using a structured questionnaire was conducted. The survey yielded 603 usable responses, and the analysis revealed that firewood users exhibited strong support for two fundamental environmental concepts: the notion that harvesting firewood from healthy trees is acceptable and the assertion that firewood is, in principle, carbonneutral. However, a significant proportion of respondents also expressed concerns that firewood use may potentially contribute to forest degradation and increase climate change. To further explore these attitudes, respondents were categorized into three distinct groups. A statistical analysis revealed significant differences among these groups in educational attainment and standard of living. Attitudes towards complex environmental issues are predominantly influenced by emotions that reflect general environmental concerns due to the public’s limited knowledge base, which hinders factual assessments.
This study examined the features of the phenological phases in four Ulmus L. genus species by conducting phenological observations at the educational and production department of the Uman National University Bilohrudivskyi Forest, from 2022 to 2024, using accepted methods. The timing of the seasonal development phases in the Ulmus genus species corresponds with the phenological seasons, determined by natural and climatic parameters. A single-peaked curve with a peak from the first decade of May to the second decade of July characterizes indicators of shoot growth dynamics. Shoots of Ulmus L. grew to 77–83% of their total length by the end of July during the growing season before adding another 17–21% in August, indicating that, despite temperature variations, the studied species fully adapts to the research region conditions.
The present research implemented two improved forest management practices in a study area in Central Italy (Monte Morello Forest) to analyze their effects on C-sequestration and C-stock in all C pools (above-ground and below-ground biomass, deadwood, litter, and soil). It also estimated silvicultural treatment effects on two additional ecosystem services — wood production and recreational activity. A thinning from below and a selective thinning were applied in a degraded coniferous forest to increase the C-sequestration in the medium-long term. The results showed that after the two thinnings, above-ground biomass and deadwood C-stock decreased (–145 and –220 t CO2 ha-1 after thinning from below and selective thinning, respectively). However, these silvicultural interventions led to an increase in C-sequestration, recovering the lost C-stock in a period of between four and nine years and generating a positive flow in the medium-long term. Moreover, both thinnings positively affected wood production and the aesthetic-visual perception of the forest for visitors.
This study assesses the structure, composition, diversity, and conservation status of the Abu Geili Riverine Forest Reserve (AGRFR), Sudan, to evaluate changes in these attributes between 2011 and 2021. Thirty sample plots (radius = 17.84 m) were established systematically. The distance between plots was 50 m and 100 m between survey lines to facilitate the identification, counting, and measuring of diameter at breast height (DBH) and height of all living trees and compare that with 2011 data. The results identified 462 trees across 32 species and 15 families in 2021, reflecting an increase in species and family diversity from 2011, which reported 626 trees from 23 species and 12 families. The Fabaceae family was most dominant, with ten species in 2021 and six in 2011. In both years, the Miliaceae and Moraceae had three species each. Three of the four calculated diversity indices displayed increasing trends, highlighting the rich diversity of the area and its importance for conservation and management.
Red heartwood forms in most old beech stands, which reduces the commercial value of the wood considerably. Many of the chemical and biochemical processes involved in red heartwood formation are known, but research has been limited to a single level of the stem (usually at breast height). The present study investigated the radial and vertical distribution of dissoluble carbohydrates at different height levels within a red heartwood (17 levels) and a non-red heartwood (12 levels) beech stem. The radial changes of the concentrations differ notably in beech with or without red heartwood. An increase in the transition zone is not a mandatory condition for red heartwood formation, but a decrease in concentration always occurs after the transition zone. Intense sugar metabolism at the color boundary contributes to the surplus energy required in red heartwood formation and the in situ synthesis of polyphenolic compounds.
This study assesses tree species availability in Sinnar state, Sudan, to identify the types of wood used, marketed and explores the selection criteria driven by the continuing demand for timber in construction, furniture, and energy sources. The research included interviews with 87 randomly selected respondents from three timber trading and sawmill companies (Elsuki, Sinnar, and Singa). The surveys utilize descriptive analysis using SPSS and Excel. Findings revealed 28 historically available timber species, of which only eight are currently on the market. Selection criteria for trading species include viability, durability, and market demand. Approximately 47.9 % of timber comes from reserved forests, mainly for sawmill use, while 31.3 % comes from private and community-managed forests. The study highlights a significant decline in the availability of timber species, with 88 % of respondents expressing concerns about this trend due to overexploitation, revealing the urgent need for conservation efforts. This study suggests planting indigenous fast-growing trees to meet the region’s timber needs.
This article aims to evaluate the impact of logging on water, soil, and vegetation in forest stands (736; 746 affected by logging and control area 400 — without logging) — and the occurrence of herbal synusia. The NES (non-polar extractable substances) indicator exceeded limits in all surface water samples. Thirty percent of the samples taken from Forest Stand 736 exceeded NES limits. In Stand 746, the ratio was 60 %. Forest area 400 remained under NES limits. Operating fluid leaks from transport-mechanization machines, pollution from older environmental loads, and the content of humic substances are possible reasons for the increased concentration of physic-chemical indicators. The NES content did not affect the number and coverage of species in the monitored areas. The EAI (Environment Accident Index, which utilizes knowledge about ecotoxicity) index method confirmed the environmental risk of logging in the forest environment.
Biological pest control is increasingly crucial and emphasized in research, leading to the frequent use of entomopathogenic fungi such as Beauveria bassiana and B. brongniartii. Integrated pest management often requires multiple control agents to address various species simultaneously, raising the question of the interaction between the utilized fungi and the other active agents applied simultaneously. The present study examined the interactions between active ingredients and entomopathogenic fungi in laboratory conditions. The results indicate that insecticides and herbicides containing diazinon or glyphosate have neutral or positive effects on the examined Beauveria species. However, fungicides with the active ingredients penconazole or sulfur demonstrated adverse effects when used alongside the tested entomopathogenic fungi. The combined use of fungicides and fungi deserves examination because, in many cases, fungal diseases appear simultaneously with pests, e.g., powdery mildew.
The black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) is a significant tree species in many European countries, especially Hungary. The Hungarian Forest Research Institute initiated a project in the 1960s to improve Robinia stem quality and yield. Five newly bred clones (Laposi, Napkori, Hajdúsági, Farkasszigeti, Püspökladányi) are currently undergoing tests in three trials (Debrecen, Napkor, and Nyírbogdány). Studying the health status of these clones is vital to the cultivar certification process. In September 2022 (Napkor) and August 2023 (Nyírbogdány, Debrecen), we investigated 30 trees per clone by estimating average foliage loss per individual and observing the extent and causes of damage to the crown (canopy), branches, and trunk in each experimental plot. At the same time as the tree health survey, NDVI measurements were also performed in Debrecen using Trimble Greenseeker handheld sensor. Our results indicate that the clones possess good drought tolerance; however, the NDVI results revealed significant differences between the clones: Laposi and Farkasszigeti have the highest NDVI values (0.76 and 0.77), and Püspökladány has the lowest (0.74). Napkori is the most susceptible to fungal disease, exhibiting significant incidences of bark necrosis caused by Phomopsis petiolorum. The rate of insect damage was negligible, even with low levels of damage by leaf miners, which are very common in black locust plantations.
This paper presents the DAS forest model (Distributions Applied on Stands model), a forest stand-based model suitable for projecting standing volume, increment, harvest, and carbon sequestration on the stand, regional, or country levels. The forest subcompartment is the modelling unit of the DAS model, which uses National Forestry Database (NFD) data, including geospatial data. The model is suitable for further processing spatially explicit input parameters such as climate change forecasts. The model output is also georeferenced and can be further processed using GIS software. The model handles the data of approximately 600,000 forest subcompartments. Data on tree species, origin, age, growing stock, increment etc. of each subcompartment are stored in “tree-species rows”, which are the sub-units of the model. The DAS model simultaneously processes the data of 1.2 million tree species rows and describes their development in time. It uses parameters based on the actual processes of the reference period. It also uses empiric cutting age distributions and a regeneration matrix derived from historic NFD data. The ForestLab project (TKP2021-NKTA-43) is currently engaged in the re-parametrization of the model based on 2016–2021 data. This study discusses the functions of the harvesting ratio distribution in the modelling process and in determining the subcompartments selected for harvest. The paper presents the latest results regarding the 2016–2021 cutting age distributions and the preparation of the new set of species-specific and yield class-specific average harvesting ratio distributions.
