SLU and WWF launch new collaboration to inspire the next generation of forest professionals

There is a growing need for qualified expertise to address climate change, biodiversity loss and the transition towards a more sustainable use of natural resources. In this effort, collaboration between academia and civil society plays a key role.

“Many people still associate forestry careers with traditional forest work. Today, it is just as much about climate policy, sustainable business models, global value chains and nature conservation. Through our collaboration with WWF, we want to highlight how broad and socially relevant forest-related expertise really is,” says Tashina Alavi, responsible for the campaign at the Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre, SLU.

As part of the collaboration, a range of professional profiles will be highlighted to demonstrate where an education in forestry can lead. This includes careers in areas such as climate and environmental advisory, carbon market development and business development in global companies.

Expertise Key for Climate and Biodiversity Challenges

For WWF, the collaboration is a way to emphasise the importance of knowledge and expertise in achieving goals related to biodiversity conservation and reducing climate emissions.

“To address the climate crisis, we need knowledge of forests, ecosystems and the forces that shape our societies. Our collaboration shows that the solutions of the future require both commitment and professional expertise – and we want to inspire young people to discover these exciting career paths,” says Marianne Nordin, Head of WWF Sweden Youth.

Through this initiative, both SLU and WWF aim to contribute to a more nuanced view of forestry careers and inspire more people to see the field as a future-oriented sector with global opportunities.