Danube Wood(s) Route

The Danube region boasts one of Europe's richest forest inventories, including vast areas of pristine forests. These forests are home to endangered species and provide valuable ecosystem services that have sustained local communities for centuries. The region's diverse wood cultural heritage is a core resource for sustainable green tourism development. However, despite its potential, wood cultural heritage and traditions are underutilized in tourism, with issues such as the destruction of wooden artifacts, the replacement of traditional buildings, and fading traditional craftsmanship. There is a lack of green business initiatives and sustainable local value chains that could promote the "wood civilization" and enhance eco-tourism. Additionally, young people and potential developers are not recognizing the value and opportunities in wood craftsmanship and green tourism. Forest biodiversity is also at risk due to the underutilization of traditional tree species.

The main objective is to ensure the long-term sustainable use and valorization of the Danube region's forest resources (natural) and wood heritage (cultural). These resources will be leveraged to develop innovative services and products for sustainable ecotourism, creating a Danube Wood(s) cultural route rooted in traditional knowledge. This initiative aims to drive rural development in the region. The project aims to develop a strategic framework, enhance capacity building, and increase visibility to facilitate the establishment and promotion of the Danube Wood(s) cultural route.