CREAF

Established in 1987, the Centre for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications (CREAF) began its journey as a visionary consortium involving the Autonomous University of Barcelona, the Institute for Catalan Studies, and the Government of Catalonia. What started as a focused initiative to bridge the gap between academic ecology and practical forestry management has evolved into a premier public research center dedicated to deciphering the complexities of our changing planet. Over the decades, CREAF has significantly expanded its institutional footprint, incorporating support from the University of Barcelona, the Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). This growth has solidified its position at the forefront of terrestrial ecology, territorial analysis, and global change research, making it a hub for scientific innovation in the Mediterranean region and beyond.

Today, CREAF stands as a beacon of scientific excellence, driven by an unwavering mission to generate rigorous knowledge and create cutting-edge methodological tools. The center's narrative is one of continuous adaptation and commitment to addressing the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century, such as biodiversity loss, ecosystem functioning, and climate change mitigation. With a dynamic team of over 300 professionals, CREAF integrates a wide array of disciplines—ranging from molecular biology and forest ecology to advanced remote sensing and geographic information systems. This multidisciplinary approach empowers the center to not only produce high-impact science but also to act as a vital bridge between academia, policymakers, and society. By fostering awareness and exchanging knowledge, CREAF ensures that scientific evidence directly informs sustainable management and conservation strategies, striving tirelessly to maintain a habitable and resilient planet for future generations.