Our Lab has started a pilot project on the value of Roadless Areas for the conservation of Old-Growth Forests.

Fieldwork is challenging and demands a mountaineering experience, but it is conducted in the wildest and most beautiful areas of Ioannina Region! Photos of the BCL team: Maria Petridou (postdoctoral researcher) and the graduate students Despina Marouga and Alexandros Batsis.

Old growth forests have important ecological, scientific, economic, social and cultural values. They contain large quantities of dead wood and are a refuge for many species of flora and fauna. Despite their rarity (they cover only 1-3% of European forests), their protection is inadequate, and their area is constantly shrinking.

The European legislation demands mapping and strict protection of all old-growth forests in Europe (100%). Where are they? We search for this treasure in the wild heart of Greece, the roadless areas.

The project is an initiative of the Lab, but it is partially funded by INTEGRADIV international project (Biodiversa funding scheme).