Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

The forest industry is a significant contributor to Sweden's economy, with small-scale forest owners managing a
substantial portion of the productive land (over 47% of productive land). This study explores how Swedish and
EU forest policies impact these owners, particularly those prioritizing environmental concerns. Former studies
have shown a divergence between policy objectives and tangible results especially in terms of wider
environmental goals thus indicating that policies may not fully recognize the intricacies of forest management
among knowledgeable actors.

Using Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of social fields and a phenomenological approach, the research examines how
these owners navigate policy demands, adapt their practices, and manage the balance between economic viability
and ecological sustainability. Through semi-structured interviews with these environmentalists who are smallscale
forest owners’ themselves, the findings reveal that while policies promote sustainable practices, they also
impose economic and operational challenges.

The interviews also reveal their strategies for coping with policy changes, the challenges they face, and the broader implications for Swedish forests. Owners adapt through diversification, financial support mechanisms, and
strategic adjustments in forestry practices. The study underscores the dynamic interplay between economic
viability, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance, providing insights for more effective policy
formulation and sustainable forest management.