Comparing the available supply, the societal demand, and the actual use of forest ecosystem services (FES) reveals where societal needs are met, where forests are overexploited to do so, and/or where untapped potential exists. Due to the complexity of this task, many studies focus exclusively on either supply or demand, disregarding their interconnection and limiting the integration of scientific findings into policy and practice. To better understand and address this gap, we aim to identify the main challenges in quantitatively mapping and modelling FES supply-demand mismatches, and to outline practical opportunities for integrating both perspectives. This study presents the synthesis of a systematic literature mapping, where proxy indicators and estimates used to quantify the supply and demand of FES across Europe were collected. We discuss four key challenges, identified from this synthesis, that currently limit the integration of FES supply and demand in practice: (1) inconsistencies in FES quantification methods, (2) limitations of the ecosystem service cascade framework, (3) issues with data availability and reliability, and (4) the interdisciplinary nature of matching supply and demand. Different integration pathways exist, depending on the specific FES and study aim, as a universal integration approach remains unrealistic. Identifying mismatches between the supply and demand of FES remains challenging in practice, especially across large spatial scales. Drawing on an extensive systematic literature mapping exercise, this study uncovers key underlying causes for this research gap and highlights the importance of tailored, FES-specific strategies reconciling ecological and socioeconomic perspectives.

Abstract Purpose of Review We evaluated the development of mechanized cut-to-length (CTL) harvesting systems outside of the Nordic countries in areas with great potential but limited adoption. We explored the Nordic countries for context, then focused on Central/Southern Europe and North America as two examples. Within North America, we highlighted the US South as an area of potential growth for CTL systems, despite this region currently being dominated by full-tree harvesting. We reviewed the past, present, and future uses and applications of the mechanized CTL system, examining its capabilities, limitations, successes, failures, and opportunities. Recent Findings GIS-based applications for CTL machines continue to advance, utilizing new data and technologies for harvest planning and machine trafficking to avoid wet or sensitive areas. Communication between machines related to pile assortment and location continues to improve, streamlining CTL team efficiency. The introduction of machine-mounted terrestrial LiDAR for tree selection during thinning is promising and may accelerate the development of autonomous capabilities. Unfortunately, the widescale adoption of these technologies is limited beyond the Nordic countries, where significant market and logistical challenges remain. Summary Mechanized CTL harvesting technologies and capabilities have advanced significantly since their inception in the 1970s, with current machines representing the highest levels of mechanization, safety, ergonomics, technology, and site impact mitigation. However, several limitations impede the system’s widescale adoption such as 1) the lack of effective operator training, 2) market constraints limiting the justification for value recovery benefits in small-diameter harvests, 3) lack of industry adoption of CTL-sized wood in markets dominated by tree-length stems, and 4) challenges related to productivity and cost when compared to full-tree systems.

Purpose of reviewThis review explores the opportunities and challenges associated with using unconventional and underutilized wood sources, such as fast-growing species, logging residues, fire-damaged wood, and post-consumer wood, to manufacture wood-based composite panels (WBCPs), particularly particleboard, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and oriented strand board. This paper also discusses recent advancements in lightweight and multifunctional panels, with new features such as fire resistance, electrical conductivity, electromagnetic shielding, and antibacterial laminates.Recent findingsClimate change, wildfires, and competition from the energy sector threaten current sources of fiber supply for WBCP manufacturing in some regions. Logging residues are abundant but underutilized in some areas, and the abundance of fire-damaged wood is expected to increase in the coming years due to climate change. These raw materials’ effects on panel properties and technological limitations are discussed. Recycled wood is increasingly used for non-structural panels, but challenges remain when it comes to recycling panels, particularly post-consumer MDF. Conventional and emerging materials used in lightweight and multifunctional panels are also presented. Natural substances like cellulose, nanocellulose, chitosan, lignin, protein, and phytic acid are promising alternatives to conventional fire retardants. Innovative products such as MDF that contains carbon-based conductive fibers and antimicrobial laminates that use green-synthesized metal compounds are also reported.SummaryThis review shows that the WBCP industry can improve its sustainability by optimizing and diversifying wood sources, better managing and recycling post-consumer panels, and using more environmentally friendly materials. The hazardous chemicals in adhesives, fire retardants, and coatings are the main obstacles to recycling panels and creating a more circular economy within the WBCP industry.

Purpose of ReviewSince the late 1990s, researchers have been increasingly utilising digital methodologies to assess the branch structure of trees. The emergence of commercial terrestrial laser scanners during this period catalysed an entirely new domain focused on point cloud-based research. Over the years, this field has transformed from a complex computational discipline into a practical tool that effectively supports research endeavours. Through the combined use of non-destructive remote sensing techniques and advanced analytical methods, branch characterisation can now be carried out at an unprecedented level.Recent FindingsWhile terrestrial laser scanning has traditionally been the dominant methodology for this research domain, the increased use of mobile laser scanners and unmanned aerial vehicles indicates a transition towards more mobile platforms. Quantitative structural modelling (QSM) has been pivotal in advancing this field, enhancing branch characterisation capabilities across diverse fields. The past five years have seen increased uptake of 2D and 3D deep learning techniques as alternatives.SummaryThis article presents a comprehensive synthesis of approximately 25 years of research in the field of digital branch characterisation, reviewing the data capture technologies and analytical methods, along with the forest types and tree species to which these technologies have been applied. It explores the current trends in this dynamic field of research, research gaps and some of the key challenges that remain within this field. In this review, we placed particular emphasis on the potential resolution of the significant challenge associated with occlusion through the utilisation of mobile technologies, such as mobile laser scanners and unmanned aerial vehicles. We highlight the need for a more cohesive method for assessing point cloud quality and derived structural model accuracy, and benchmarking data sets that can be used to test new and existing algorithms.

Purpose of ReviewThe comprehensive assessment of timber and fuelwood harvesting operations through the consideration of the three pillars of sustainability: Economic, social, and environmental has not received much attention. The use of criteria can significantly improve impact assessment. Therefore, the objective of this review paper is to compile and analyze the most commonly used criteria and indicators for each dimension of sustainability in logging operations over the last 6 years. This review provides an overview of these criteria for different harvesting machines, geographical areas, slope classes, time periods, types of research, and silvicultural treatments.Recent FindingsThe environmental pillar was the most studied (46%), followed by the economic pillar (38%). Productivity was the most investigated criterion (15%). On the one hand, productivity is linked to the environmental and social pillars, as it is related to the level of greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and the employment rate. However, productivity is mainly used as a criterion of financial interest, as it is most often studied in combination with costs. In addition to productivity, the other most frequently examined criteria were costs (10%), soil nutrients (9.5%), and soil compaction (9%). The social dimension was the least studied pillar (16%). This may be due to a lack of knowledge of social sustainability issues in this area.SummarySustainability is achieved when all three dimensions are balanced. The results of this review show an imbalance, with economic and environmental aspects being weighted more heavily than social aspects. Balancing all three dimensions typically requires an assessment of trade-offs. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the criteria that have been studied to date and can be used as a checklist and guideline for future sustainability assessments of harvesting operations.