RESINA NATURAL EM PORTUGAL – DESAFIOS ESTRATÉGICOS

Abstract

In the 1970s, Portugal was one of the world’s largest producers of natural resin. Competition from countries like China and Brazil and a lack of domestic labor resulted in a decrease in extraction activities, significantly impacting the Portuguese industry, which became dependent on resin imports. However, as natural resin is a renewable resource and an alternative to fossil fuels, there is currently the possibility of integrating this resource within the bioeconomy. This article presents some strategic challenges for the resin sector, particularly regarding the production and exploitation of maritime pine forests. It highlights the need to: (a) develop silvicultural models for stands managed simultaneously for wood and resin; (b) develop resin yield models that consider productivity zones and factors influencing production; (c) adapt legislation regulating resin tapping activities in line with advances in knowledge; (d) provide training and working conditions for resin tappers to make the activity attractive; (e) value the indirect services to the forest and society associated with resin tapping; (f) develop a genetic improvement program for resin production.