The Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), in partnership with the International Union of Forest Research Organisations (IUFRO), will host a knowledge-sharing workshop titled “From Research to Restoration: Advancing Forest Landscape Restoration Through Science and Collaboration” from September 14 to 16 at the KFRI, Peechi. The event will bring together scientists, researchers, and professionals to advance effective forest landscape restoration.
According to a KFRI press release, the workshop aims to build participants’ understanding of forest landscape restoration (FLR) principles, processes, and skills needed for impactful land restoration. It will provide practical tools to translate scientific research into on-ground action. Positioned against Kerala’s ongoing environmental and climate challenges, the event seeks to foster collaborative global solutions.
Focussing on the social dimension of restoration, the workshop will explore the six global FLR principles, emphasising cooperation, adaptive management, and community engagement. Experts including, Janice Burns and Michael Kleine of IUFRO and Ilse Hennemann and Varun Tumuluru of CIFOR-ICRAF, will share insights on the role of science in the FLR, translating research into practice, stakeholder engagement, and effective information management.
Kannan C. S. Warrier, Director of the KFRI, said the workshop offers a vital opportunity for Kerala to advance its restoration goals collaboratively and effectively. “By harnessing scientific knowledge and fostering collaboration between international experts and local scientists, we aim to develop actionable frameworks to tackle the State’s unique environmental challenges,” he noted.
S. Sandeep, programme coordinator and Teaknet Coordinator at the KFRI, said the workshop is more than an academic exercise, calling it “a vital step to ensure scientific research drives real-world restoration efforts.” He urged policymakers, educators, and practitioners from all sectors to join, noting that their participation would enrich discussions and help shape impactful actions to preserve Kerala’s forest landscapes.
The workshop will also feature a field trip, giving delegates first-hand exposure to ongoing restoration initiatives in Kerala and an opportunity to observe and learn from real-world practices.
Published – September 13, 2025 08:42 pm IST
