A nationwide study on forest types of distribution in Inner Areas of Italy

Inner areas are regions distant from large and medium-sized urban centers, often lack essential services such as healthcare, education, and efficient transport infrastructure, impacting the quality of life for their inhabitants. Economic decline and depopulation have resulted in abandoned landscapes, neglected agro-forestal systems, and unused construction capital. Despite these difficulties, these areas are rich in natural and cultural treasures. Notably, 80 percent of the country's forests are found in Italy's Inner Areas, which are a key component of the supply chain for energy, wood, and forestry. Launched in 2014, the Inner Area Strategy strike for natural resource valorization for development with the imperative of territorial sustainability and protection. Forest provides an extensive array of ecosystem services that aim to enhance human welfare and socio- economic progress. This study focuses on mapping forest types providing a preliminary representation of economic and social value of forest in Italian Inner Areas. The findings will contribute to the existing literature by evaluating forest types and their economic significance. Ultimately, this research will support sustainable forest management and the local development of these region. Key Words: Inner Areas, Forest Types Mapping, Ecosystem Services, Rural Development, Italian National Strategy for Inner Areas