The CTFC headquarters in Solsona recently hosted a new working session among the management teams of CERCA centres, “with the aim of generating synergies and sharing strategies,” in the words of Laia Pellejà, Director of I-CERCA.

In her speech, Minister Núria Montserrat talked about the Ministry of Research and Universities’ Strategic Plan. She talked about how the Science Law is being implemented and what new steps will be taken, especially those that will help centers transfer their knowledge to the business world.

Cristina Massot, Secretary General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food, also addressed the attendees, emphasising the CTFC’s impact, which extends far beyond its immediate surroundings.

Antoni Trasobares, the center’s director, outlined the two key pillars of the CTFC: first, excellent research in fields like biodiversity, bioeconomy, and wildfires, with a focus on European projects; and second, efficient knowledge transfer to the region through real-world applications that have an impact on the economy, society, and environment. In this regard, participants visited the Catalonia Forest Hub, which is set to open in October and is designed to expedite the utilization and recognition of local timber.

A gathering that clearly demonstrates how top-level research is also carried out from within the regions, with a global outlook and strong local roots.