Climate change, demographic transitions, technological developments and innovation are megatrends affecting forestry work. As the conditions of forestry work change, so does the nature of the work-related risks. Despite efforts and improvements made over the past few decades, forests continue to be one of the most hazardous industrial workplaces, with those working in forests exposed to considerable occupational safety and health (OSH) risks as well as to a high incidence of occupational accidents and work-related diseases. In view of recent transformations in forestry work, and taking into account the recent inclusion of a safe and healthy working environment in the ILO’s framework of fundamental principles and rights at work, this report identifies trends and opportunities as well as challenges to promote safe and healthy working conditions in the forest sector. It contributes to understanding the importance of decent and sustainable work in forestry, with the objective of informing the design and implementation of policies and training programmes to advance a just transition in forestry following the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goals 8 on decent work and economic growth and 15 on life on land. This report has been produced jointly by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
