Is “the green gold” gold for everyone?

Description

The purpose of this research program is to study the attractiveness of the Swedish forest industry from the perspective of (1) media and civil society, (2) private landowners and (3) employees in forest companies.

Timber from forestry forms the base for some of Sweden’s largest industries and wood and wood-based products are among our most important export goods, and the forest and the forest industry are crucial for the Swedish economy. Raw material from forestry has created industries, job opportunities and wealth for the nation. At the same time, growing forests have offered carbon sinks which increase environmental sustainability, as well as social sustainability based on opportunities for recreation and leisure activities. In governmental documents and traditional media, as well as in blogs, podcasts and other kinds of social media, the forest and its outputs are often described as “the green gold”.

Today, however, we can discern a polarisation in the area of forestry. Forestry interests are increasingly opposed by interests stated by environmental NGOs, and the debate in media has at times been spiteful. The Swedish forest sector is presently facing great challenges, and the question if “the green gold” is gold for everyone has become increasingly debated.