Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Sonae Arauco has completed the third phase of its forestry research and development initiative in Portugal. The programme began in 2020. Its goal has been clear. It aims to improve forest productivity and reverse the decline in pine forest areas.
The project, known as “Gene Radiata,” has now identified 10 radiata pine families with strong performance. These families are well adapted to Portugal’s varied soil and climate conditions. The findings follow six years of extensive field trials.
A total of 244 pine families were tested. These included both maritime pine and radiata pine varieties. Trials were conducted across 12 different sites. Each site presented distinct environmental conditions. This ensured robust and reliable results.
The selected families delivered notable gains. On average, growth increased by 26%. Survival rates were also strong. This combination is considered critical for commercial forestry success. The results are expected to support long-term sector stability.
The study was carried out in collaboration with Portugal’s Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF). Multiple regions were included. Coastal and inland zones were both tested. Soil types ranged from sand to granite and schist.
The selected pine families showed consistent performance. They ranked among the top in genetic growth indicators. Height development was a key measure. These families performed well across nearly all test environments.
Such consistency is important. It reduces uncertainty for forest producers. Predictable outcomes are highly valued in plantation forestry. This helps minimise risk during establishment phases.
The research also highlights adaptability. The selected genetic material can thrive under diverse conditions. This is essential in a country facing climate variability. Forestry investments depend on resilience.
The project findings will now be shared. Forestry producers across Portugal will gain access to this knowledge. Large-scale propagation is planned in the medium term. This step is expected to strengthen the pine value chain.
The initiative comes at a critical time. Portugal’s pine forest area has declined significantly. Between 1995 and 2015, 27% of planted area was lost. This equates to over 13,000 football pitches annually.
Recent years have brought further challenges. Major wildfires in 2017 and 2025 caused widespread damage. Around 300,000 hectares were lost between 2015 and 2025. These events exposed the vulnerability of maritime pine forests.
Extreme weather has also had an impact. Storms have damaged large forest areas. Such events highlight the need for stronger and more resilient planting material. Climate risks are increasing. Forestry strategies must evolve.
The Gene Radiata project addresses these concerns directly. It focuses on genetic improvement. Better-performing trees can enhance both yield and survival. This contributes to sustainable forest management.
The scale of the project has been significant. Around 200,000 seeds were used. These seeds came from several countries. Portugal, Spain, France and Chile were all represented.
In the first phase, 100,000 seeds were grown in controlled nursery conditions. This ensured uniform early development. Later, 21,600 trees were planted in field trials. These trials covered northern and central Portugal.
The process was repeated in 2021. This step helped reduce the influence of seasonal variation. A second batch of trees was planted. In total, 42,000 trees were established across 12 sites.
The trial area covered 35 hectares. Several municipalities were involved. These included Pombal, Figueira da Foz and Lousã. Other locations included Mangualde, Arouca and Vila Nova de Cerveira.
All trees have been closely monitored. Growth and survival data were regularly collected. Key development indicators were analysed. This ensured scientific accuracy.
Some results were influenced by environmental stress. However, the top-performing families remained consistent. Their resilience stood out. This reinforces their suitability for commercial use.
The project demonstrates industry commitment. Investment in research is essential for forestry progress. Innovation supports both economic and environmental goals.
Sonae Arauco’s initiative reflects a long-term vision. Stronger forests can support rural economies. They also contribute to carbon capture. Sustainable forestry remains a national priority.
The selected radiata pine families mark a new phase. Their adoption could improve plantation outcomes. Productivity gains are expected. Risk levels may also decline.
In the coming years, further expansion is anticipated. Knowledge transfer will be key. Forest producers will play a central role. The success of this initiative depends on implementation.
Portugal’s forestry sector faces challenges. Yet opportunities are emerging. Genetic improvement offers a practical solution. It supports resilience, productivity and sustainability.
The Gene Radiata project sets a benchmark. It highlights the value of research-led forestry. The results could influence future plantation strategies across Europe.
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Tags: genetic improvement forestry, pine plantation growth, radiata pine Portugal, Sonae Arauco, sustainable forestry Portugal, woodworking and processing, woodworking industry, woodworking UK
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