ProPopulus Team
In France, the Merci le Peuplier initiative entered a new phase on January 1st 2026. After more than a decade of operation, the current Merci le Peuplier Charter has come to an end and has been transformed into a new action entitled Merci le Peuplier – Soutien à la filière (Thanks to Poplar– Support for the sector), with a broader approach aimed at strengthening the entire poplar sector.
Through the new initiative Merci le Peuplier – Support for the sector, participating companies commit responsibly, from January 1st 2026, to:
- Contribute to the renewal and sustainable development of poplar plantation areas, participating in carbon sequestration.
- Promote good poplar cultivation practices and environmental best practices, while optimising wood quality, and encourage wood products derived from poplar.
- Support the development of sustainable management of poplar.
Since its launch in 2012, the initiative has provided significant support for poplar reforestation. Between 2012 and 2024, landowners benefited from the programme for the replanting of 1.1 million plants, representing 5900 hectares reforested in line with the Charter’s criteria. This effort corresponds to financial support amounting to €2.7 million, funded by companies from the poplar sector. Data for 2025 will be added to these figures in due course.
The evolution of the programme reflects changes observed in the sector in recent years. While market conditions often allow replanting after harvesting, situations remain where renewal rates are insufficient. The new approach therefore seeks to support collective and structural initiatives, going beyond direct individual aid. Two major French regions support this new scheme: Grand Est and Pays de la Loire.
With Merci le Peuplier – Support for the sector, the action is focused on strengthening cooperation among stakeholders, promoting sustainable poplar management and supporting the overall development of the sector.