Forests as a component of Finnish nature are important to nearly nine out of ten young people, regardless of the region in Finland in which they live. As a young person grows older, the proportion of those who attach great importance to forests increases. On the other hand, for 13% of young people, the forest is an unfamiliar environment.
The latest results of the “Youth Forest Barometer” study reveal the “relationships” (attitudes) of Finnish youth (aged 15 to 25) with the forest and their perceptions of forest utilisation and the forestry and timber industry. The study was conducted by “Taloustutkimus” on behalf of the Finnish Forest Association.
Although forests are considered a significant part of Finland, three out of five young people do not consider the forest an essential leisure opportunity. Significant regional differences are visible on this issue: young people in northern and eastern Finland find it harder to imagine recreation without the forest compared to the national average.
The forest is perceived as a calming, energising and inspiring environment, and usually, a young person goes there alone or with friends. It is important to 62% of young people that the forest is close to home.
The majority of young people perceive the forestry and timber industry as an employer in a positive light, although 20-30% were unable to express an opinion on the industry's image as an employer.
Greatest interest in forestry
Of the forestry, forest and woodworking industries, it is specifically forestry that interests young people the most. Incidentally, it is considered the most environmentally friendly of the three sectors examined. From an environmental protection perspective, young people rate the woodworking and forestry industries equally.
The forest industry's image is the most modern and innovative, while the woodworking industry is considered slightly more conservative. On the other hand, young people would prefer to use wood in construction, for furniture and for decoration.
Young men consider a profession related to the forest or woodworking industry much more often than young women. Hobbies related to the forest, family-owned forest land and the connection of family members' education or profession to the forest or timber industry increase the likelihood of choosing or considering such a profession.
Three out of five young people believe that the forest and timber industry provides work in a responsible sector. Half of the young people think that it is possible to combat climate change by working in forestry jobs. Two-thirds of young people also think that forests in Finland are well managed. 77% of young people agreed with the statement that "the most important function of forests is to preserve biological diversity".
Climate change is on the list of the most important issues. Young people are also concerned about their own mental health, wars and conflicts. Negative news related to the forest has recently attracted a lot of attention: for example, the Amazon rainforest fires. Positive news included the campaign to plant trees, replacing plastic with wood and other innovations in the forest sector.