Story perspectives

Forested Italian Towns Attract Migrants, Valued at $9.5 M

6/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Marcetelli, where 94% of land is forested, natural services would cost $9.5 million if replaced by alternatives.
Since 2021, 932 Italian municipalities—most in forested mountain areas—have gained a net migration of 10 per 1,000 residents.
Italy’s forests now cover 60,000 square miles—more than agricultural land—and three-quarters lie in the Alps, pre-Alpine hills and Apennines, which house only 13.5% of the population, support endangered species, and foster eco-tourism and sustainable hunting.

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Story summary

In Marcetelli, where 94% of land is forested, natural services would cost $9.5 million if replaced by alternatives.
Since 2021, 932 Italian municipalities—most in forested mountain areas—have gained a net migration of 10 per 1,000 residents.
Italy’s forests now cover 60,000 square miles—more than agricultural land—and three-quarters lie in the Alps, pre-Alpine hills and Apennines, which house only 13.5% of the population, support endangered species, and foster eco-tourism and sustainable hunting.