Forestry, wood, pulp and paper

Decent work is fundamental to ensuring sustainable and productive forestry operations that are environmentally friendly, safe for those working in them, and benefit the millions of people, many of whom are indigenous and tribal peoples, who depend on forests for their livelihoods, food and shelter. Approximately 33 million people are employed in the forest sector, which continues to face significant decent work deficits, particularly among those in the informal economy. These include poor and unsafe working conditions, barriers to the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining, inadequate occupational safety and health measures, low productivity, low wages, and limited access to social protection. Forests play a dual role in climate change, contributing to emissions through deforestation but also offering long-term mitigation benefits through sustainable forest management. As the sector undergoes structural changes driven by the green transition, workers require the right skills and access to quality training and skills upgrading to ensure a just transition.

The ILO supports the forestry sector by:

• promoting international labor standards
• supporting governments in improving data collection
• conducting research, fostering partnerships, and
• supporting constituents in to engage in effective social dialogue to enhance safety, health, and decent work conditions.

Sectoral Policies (SECTOR)

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