How can forests of the South Baltic region be used to promote health, well-being, and sustainable tourism? Over the next three years, partners of the Back2Woods project will work together to answer this question. The project was officially launched during a kick-off meeting held in Heringsdorf on the German island of Usedom.
The event was hosted by the project lead, WINGS Professional Studies at Wismar University, which welcomed partners from Denmark, Germany, Lithuania, Poland, and Sweden. The meeting marked the beginning of close international cooperation within the framework of the Interreg South Baltic Programme 2021–2027.
Forests as Spaces for Regeneration
The Back2Woods project focuses on exploring and developing the potential of forests as places that support health, recovery, and human well-being. The initiative draws inspiration from established therapeutic and health forest concepts across Europe, where nature-based experiences are combined with health promotion, environmental education, and responsible tourism.
The project’s goal is to develop a new cross-border tourism offer that integrates the South Baltic region’s natural, health, and cultural assets. At the same time, it aims to strengthen local communities and businesses by fostering innovative products and services based on the region’s natural resources.
The kick-off meeting provided an excellent opportunity for project partners to get to know one another and to plan the activities for the coming months in detail. Discussions covered the project structure, work plan, division of responsibilities, and the first pilot activities. Participants also took part in creative workshops and brainstorming sessions on how to make the best use of forest environments to create meaningful experiences for both local residents and visitors.
From the very beginning, the meeting demonstrated that the project is built on partnership, openness, and the exchange of knowledge and experience among organisations from across the Baltic Sea region.
Visit to the Healing Forest
One of the most inspiring highlights of the programme was a joint visit to the Healing Forest Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. During a guided walk through the therapeutic forest, participants experienced first-hand how carefully designed nature-based activities can support physical and mental regeneration, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
This practical experience perfectly illustrated the direction of the Back2Woods project—from drawing inspiration from nature to creating innovative tourism products and practical solutions that will benefit the South Baltic region.
BISER’s Role in the Project
The Baltic Institute for European and Regional Affairs (BISER) represented Poland at the kick-off meeting and will play an active role throughout the implementation of the project.
BISER will contribute to the development of educational activities, test innovative methods of working with different target groups, and support the dissemination of project results. Particular attention will be given to activities involving children, young people, and families, demonstrating that forests are not only places for recreation but also valuable environments that support mental health, strengthen social relationships, and promote environmental education.
Three Years of Collaboration Ahead
The meeting in Heringsdorf marked only the beginning of a shared journey. In the coming months, project partners will jointly develop and test innovative solutions, organise workshops, and create tourism offers that demonstrate how reconnecting with nature can become an essential element of modern, sustainable tourism.
We would like to thank the project lead, WINGS Professional Studies – Wismar University, for the excellent organisation of the kick-off meeting, and all project partners for the inspiring discussions and positive atmosphere. We are delighted to be part of this international initiative and look forward to the next stages of the project.
Back2Woods – Forest as a Space for Regeneration, Health and New Tourism Opportunities is co-funded by the Interreg South Baltic Programme 2021–2027.
