Forest science

Forest and Land Management forms specialists in sustainable management, conservation and integrated valorisation of forests and natural resources and is characterized by an interdisciplinary approach to forestry. Subjects taught include applied ecology and functioning of natural ecosystems, management of wildlife and insects, biotic and abiotic disturbances and related mitigation tools, applied forestry and forest operations, forest pathology, bio-economy and resource valorization, hydrology, fluviomorphology, integrated management of erosion in steep slopes of mountainous areas. Students acquire awareness and understanding of the organization of forest and mountain ecosystems and skills for sustainable management of forests and rural landscape, especially in an Alpine and Mediterranean environment.

The curriculum Forest and Nature for the Future forms specialists in governance of forests and natural ecosystems in the context of international issues such as climate change, deforestation, land use change and biodiversity conservation. Subjects taught include dynamics of natural ecosystems and climate change, natural habitat management, forestry, forest planning and operations in fragile environments, production, evaluation and enhancement of ecosystem services also through participatory approaches, international forestry policy, conflict management, corporate social responsibility, forest certification. Students acquire capacity to interpret complex socio-ecological systems and to identify innovative solutions for responsible forest management in line with the major global environmental issues.