An international conference on the occasion of the 95th anniversary of the Forest Research Institute at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences took place in the period 19-21 October 2023 at Grand Hotel Astoria. The conference was held under the title “Forests Without Borders” and brought together leading scientists, researchers and international experts who shared the latest research, programmes and policies in the field of forestry, ecology and ecosystem services.

The international forum created an opportunity for exchange of experience, fruitful discussions and future collaborations. Scientists from Austria, Serbia, North Macedonia, Greece, Türkiye, Germany, Croatia took part.

Altogether 63 reports and 43 posters were presented at the conference. They covered the following thematic areas: Forestry and sustainable forest management; Forestry and forest genetic resources; Forest ecology and ecosystem services; Climate change, forest fires and natural disasters; Soil, erosion and flood control; Forest health and monitoring; Urban forestry, green infrastructure and forestry; Wildlife and non-timber forest resources; Conservation of biodiversity; Natural resources policy.

The last day of the conference took place in the region of Koprivshtitsa, where conference participants discussed the importance of forests in determining ecosystem benefits for society, with an emphasis on the historical and cultural aspects of the National Revival town.