The power of reforestation - the Swedish example

The text and the report below are based on a presentation at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, 10–21 November 2025.

From barren heaths to green forests

Sweden’s journey from deforestation to forestry success can offer a hopeful model for the world.

In the mid-19th century, Sweden faced severe deforestation and poverty. Forests had been cut down for fuel and construction without replanting, leaving behind barren landscapes. Southern Sweden, once rich in woodland, was dominated by low-productive heathlands.

A turning point came with the Forestry Act of 1903, the world’s first modern forest law, which required replanting after logging. Organisations such as the Forest Society mobilised communities to restore the forests, transforming the deforested landscape – and with it, the economy.

Global potential for reforestation

As a tool to mitigate climate change, researchers have explored how reforestation can contribute. Forests’ ability to absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) makes them a powerful instrument in climate action. A 2019 study estimated that 900 million hectares of land worldwide could be reforested, potentially removing 205 gigatonnes of carbon from the atmosphere – almost two-thirds of the carbon added by humans.

More recent studies, however, warn of practical challenges – such as land-use conflicts, biodiversity risks and water availability – which reduce this potential. Despite this, 389 million hectares remain suitable for reforestation, offering significant climate benefits.

Forests, carbon and the substitution effect

Sustainably managed forests can increase carbon storage, reduce the use of fossil-based raw materials and support long-term climate goals. When trees are harvested before reaching full maturity and replaced with new ones, the forest continues to absorb CO₂. Products made from wood also store carbon and can replace fossil-intensive materials.

Demand for renewable and fossil-free products is market-driven, increasing the need for forest resources. Using forest products instead of fossil-based ones avoids emissions – this is known as the substitution effect.

Recycling amplifies this effect. In Sweden, the climate benefit is doubled through the recycling of forest products after use, particularly through paper recycling.