Forests and Biodiversity: The role of agricultural SMEs and PEPAC support in protecting our natural heritage
Much more than just a collection of trees, forests are living organisms, spaces of balance and wisdom, where nature expresses itself with a depth that challenges us. Caring for the forest is therefore caring for ourselves, our quality of life, our collective future and the life of the planet.
Forests and Biodiversity: The role of agricultural SMEs and PEPAC support in protecting our natural heritage
Much more than just a collection of trees, forests are living organisms, spaces of balance and wisdom, where nature expresses itself with a depth that challenges us. Caring for the forest is therefore caring for ourselves, our quality of life, our collective future and the life of the planet.
Portuguese forests play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, providing habitat for thousands of species of plants, animals and microorganisms, many of which are endemic or endangered. They are also fundamental for climate regulation, soil protection, water retention and ecosystem balance. Losing this heritage would not only be irreparable environmental damage, but also a profound blow to the rural economy and the quality of life of communities.
The contribution of agricultural SMEs to forest protection
Although large companies in the sector, such as The Navigator Company, play an important role in innovation and sustainable forest management, small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises (SMEs) also have a strategic role to play in this mission.
These companies, often rooted in local communities, can:
- Integrate agroforestry practices that reconcile agricultural production with biodiversity conservation.
- Invest in the reforestation of degraded areas with native species, creating ecological corridors that strengthen habitat connectivity.
- Maintain and manage forest and woodland areas in coexistence with agricultural crops, contributing to more fertile soils and greater resilience to climate change.
- Participate in forest certification programmes, ensuring that the production of wood, cork or resins complies with internationally recognised sustainability standards.
Technology and innovation: allies of sustainability
Innovative practices such as smart irrigation systems, sensors to monitor tree health, and the use of agricultural waste for biomass production allow even small businesses to implement low environmental impact strategies. Inspired by examples such as the production of moulded cellulose packaging from eucalyptus fibre — a sustainable alternative to plastic — SMEs can find new business opportunities in line with the circular economy.
The role of PEPAC support
The Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan (PEPAC), by integrating measures to support sustainability and ecological transition, offers agricultural SMEs financial and technical resources to invest in forest preservation and the promotion of biodiversity.
Among the actions supported, the following stand out:
- Incentives for afforestation and maintenance of wooded areas.
- Support for the management of habitats and areas of high natural value.
- Funding for technological innovation and climate change adaptation projects.
- Compensation for farmers who adopt practices that exceed basic environmental requirements.
This support not only reduces the economic risk for SMEs, but also accelerates the implementation of regenerative practices that benefit the ecosystem as a whole.
A commitment from everyone
Protecting the forest means defending a legacy and recognising that we are part of a larger, interdependent system full of potential and life. By aligning their business models with sustainability principles and taking advantage of existing support, agricultural SMEs can become key players in preserving biodiversity and building a greener future.
After all, the forest is not just a resource, it is a living heritage that, if well cared for, can ensure economic prosperity, ecological balance and quality of life for future generations.
Would you like to know how you can take advantage of support for the agricultural sector in order to implement these and other measures? Contact us or fill out a free information request form and one of our consultants will contact you. Click here.
Andreia Arenga
18.08.2025
All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted or used, in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Equações Exaustivas Lda. All trademarks, company names, logos and products mentioned are the property of their respective owners.
Portuguese forests play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, providing habitat for thousands of species of plants, animals and microorganisms, many of which are endemic or endangered. They are also fundamental for climate regulation, soil protection, water retention and ecosystem balance. Losing this heritage would not only be irreparable environmental damage, but also a profound blow to the rural economy and the quality of life of communities.
The contribution of agricultural SMEs to forest protection
Although large companies in the sector, such as The Navigator Company, play an important role in innovation and sustainable forest management, small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises (SMEs) also have a strategic role to play in this mission.
These companies, often rooted in local communities, can:
- Integrate agroforestry practices that reconcile agricultural production with biodiversity conservation.
- Invest in the reforestation of degraded areas with native species, creating ecological corridors that strengthen habitat connectivity.
- Maintain and manage forest and woodland areas in coexistence with agricultural crops, contributing to more fertile soils and greater resilience to climate change.
- Participate in forest certification programmes, ensuring that the production of wood, cork or resins complies with internationally recognised sustainability standards.
Technology and innovation: allies of sustainability
Innovative practices such as smart irrigation systems, sensors to monitor tree health, and the use of agricultural waste for biomass production allow even small businesses to implement low environmental impact strategies. Inspired by examples such as the production of moulded cellulose packaging from eucalyptus fibre — a sustainable alternative to plastic — SMEs can find new business opportunities in line with the circular economy.
The role of PEPAC support
The Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan (PEPAC), by integrating measures to support sustainability and ecological transition, offers agricultural SMEs financial and technical resources to invest in forest preservation and the promotion of biodiversity.
Among the actions supported, the following stand out:
- Incentives for afforestation and maintenance of wooded areas.
- Support for the management of habitats and areas of high natural value.
- Funding for technological innovation and climate change adaptation projects.
- Compensation for farmers who adopt practices that exceed basic environmental requirements.
This support not only reduces the economic risk for SMEs, but also accelerates the implementation of regenerative practices that benefit the ecosystem as a whole.
A commitment from everyone
Protecting the forest means defending a legacy and recognising that we are part of a larger, interdependent system full of potential and life. By aligning their business models with sustainability principles and taking advantage of existing support, agricultural SMEs can become key players in preserving biodiversity and building a greener future.
After all, the forest is not just a resource, it is a living heritage that, if well cared for, can ensure economic prosperity, ecological balance and quality of life for future generations.
Would you like to know how you can take advantage of support for the agricultural sector in order to implement these and other measures? Contact us or fill out a free information request form and one of our consultants will contact you. Click here.
Andreia Arenga
18.08.2025
All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted or used, in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Equações Exaustivas Lda. All trademarks, company names, logos and products mentioned are the property of their respective owners.
