From November 18 to 22, the 33rd Forum of the Red Latinoamericana de Bosques Modelo (RLABM) took place in the Abancay Model Forest, Peru. The event brought together representatives from over 15 countries, international experts, and strategic partners for a week of engaging activities, debates, and commitments toward the sustainability of regional landscapes.
The Mediterranean Model Forest Network Secretariat was honored to participate, represented by Toni Ventre and Elisabetta Gravano as officials of the Tuscany Region, which coordinates the MMFN Secretariat since 2019.
Throughout the Forum, participants had the opportunity to share the achievements of the 34 Model Forests that form the RLABM, engage local public and private stakeholders, and involve students from Abancay University. Strategic allies such as CIFOR/ICRAF, WRI Initiative 20x20, ECO Agriculture Partners, and the International Model Forest Network Secretariat were also present, helping to strengthen and expand existing collaborations.
The event was not only effective and fruitful but also highly rewarding in terms of human connection, thanks to the excellent organization by the Abancay Model Forest team and the RLABM Secretariat, led by President Roger Villalobos, Secretary Fernando Carrera, and their dynamic team.
For the Mediterranean Network, this participation provided a deeper understanding of the RLABM's diverse realities and facilitated the development of collaborative ideas for intensifying the exchange of best practices and experiences. Despite differences in social, economic, and environmental contexts between the two networks, global and local challenges often align. Sharing the principles and methodologies of the Model Forest process creates a common language, rooted in shared values and objectives—a foundation that proves invaluable.
