Bibliometric Insights into Forest Bioeconomy and Business Models in Forest Management

This study investigates forest bioeconomy business models through a bibliometric analysis of more than 100 peer-reviewed articles retrieved primarily from the Scopus database. The purpose of the analysis was to identify prevailing research trends, collaborative structures, and thematic priorities that define this emerging field. A mixed-method approach was employed, integrating qualitative thematic coding with quantitative network analysis of co-authorship and keyword co-occurrence. The findings demonstrate a strong regional concentration of research activity in Northern and Central Europe, particularly in countries such as Finland, Germany, and Sweden, where forest-based bioeconomy strategies are strongly linked to national and EU policy frameworks. Core thematic clusters emphasize sustainability, circular economy principles, and participatory governance, reflecting the integrative and systemic orientation of current scholarship. The co-authorship networks highlight the role of a small but influential group of scholars and institutions in shaping knowledge production and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. To advance the global relevance of the forest bioeconomy, the study recommends expanding geographic coverage to underrepresented regions, enhancing cross-disciplinary partnerships, and aligning research more closely with international policy agendas to support inclusive, circular, and sustainable forest-based transitions.