26–29 October 2026 | Bratislava, Slovakia

EOS participated in the Forest Communicators Network meeting, held in Bratislava from 26 to 29 October 2026. The event brought together forest communication professionals from across Europe to exchange experiences, explore innovative communication approaches and discuss how to bring forests and the forest-based sector closer to the wider public.

The meeting focused on the importance of effective storytelling in raising awareness of sustainable forest management, the role of forests in society and the opportunities offered by the forest-based bioeconomy.

Communicating the Value of Forests

Participants exchanged ideas and best practices on how to communicate forest-related topics more effectively, including through digital platforms, videos and innovative outreach campaigns.

Particular attention was given to the potential of audiovisual content to make complex forestry issues more accessible and engaging for non-specialist audiences.

The programme also addressed key challenges and opportunities for European forests, including wildfire prevention, forest restoration and the promotion of non-timber forest products.

Exploring Innovation in the Forest-Based Bioeconomy

One of the highlights of the meeting was a technical visit to LignoSilva, a Centre of Excellence in the forest-based bioeconomy located in Gabčíkovo, Slovakia, supported by the European Union and coordinated by the Slovak National Forest Centre.

The visit offered participants valuable insights into innovative technologies and research activities aimed at improving the sustainable and efficient use of wood resources.

Among the technologies presented was 3D computed tomography scanning of logs, which allows researchers to identify internal defects and optimise timber processing, reducing waste and improving resource efficiency.

Other research activities included the development of innovative wood-based packaging, recycled paper materials and nanocellulose, demonstrating the potential of wood as a renewable raw material for advanced industrial applications.

Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Communication

The meeting also featured practical training on the use of artificial intelligence in communication, exploring how AI-based tools can support content creation, streamline repetitive tasks and facilitate the development of digital communication solutions.

Participants had the opportunity to explore applications ranging from automated transcription and article drafting to AI agents and simple digital tools developed through natural-language instructions.

Strengthening the Visibility of the European Forest-Based Sector

For EOS, participation in the Forest Communicators Network provided a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences with communication professionals and explore new ways to highlight the contribution of the European sawmill industry to a sustainable and competitive bioeconomy.

• Effective communication is essential to raising awareness of the role of sustainably managed forests, the importance of wood as a renewable raw material and the contribution of European wood-processing industries to rural employment, resource efficiency and climate objectives.

The meeting reaffirmed the importance of cooperation among forest-based stakeholders in promoting a better understanding of Europe’s forests and the industries that depend on them.