Sweden’s forest industry contributes to national preparedness by continuing to supply essential everyday products – from construction materials and packaging to energy and hygiene products – while exports help strengthen the national economy. The use of domestic raw materials also reduces Sweden’s dependence on imports during uncertain times.
For Norra Timber, resilience is a matter of daily practice: continuously refining northern Swedish forest resources into products that society needs.
“When we process Swedish raw material into wood products, we contribute to a more self sufficient and robust society. It’s easy to take access to building materials and packaging for granted, but in a crisis it becomes crucial that production is close at hand,” says Erik Eliasson, Sales Director at Norra Timber.
The forest industry is also a crucial part of the infrastructure behind national preparedness. Forest owners and companies maintain around 200,000 kilometres of forest roads – roads that often have no alternatives and can be used by both civilian and military actors. Machinery and expertise within forestry can also be rapidly deployed during storms, wildfires, or disruptions in the energy system.
Exports play a key role as well. Wood products and other forest based materials strengthen the trade balance and generate economic resources that improve societal resilience over the long term.
For Norra Timber, the connection between the forest, industry and societal preparedness is clear.
“A strong wood industry means jobs, export revenues and access to essential products. It makes both Sweden and Europe more resilient. The sector provides employment across the entire country – particularly in rural areas – which is also important from a preparedness perspective,” says Erik Eliasson.
As preparedness becomes increasingly important, the forest industry is more frequently recognized as a strategic resource – not only for the climate and the economy, but also for societal security.
“The forest industry also plays a major role in Sweden’s energy supply. Forty percent of Sweden’s total energy comes from biomass, with the forest industry as the dominant contributor. This significantly strengthens our resilience and reduces the need for imported fossil fuels,” says Erik Eliasson.