In Sweden and Northern Europe, a silent yet profound disappearance of the last primeval and natural forests of Europe is underway. These largely untouched continuity forests are part of the boreal taiga belt and are vital for biodiversity, climate protection, and the traditional way of life of the Indigenous Sámi people.
Since the 1950s, large-scale clear-cutting has transformed rich, diverse ecosystems into monotonous tree plantations at an alarming pace. The consequences are severe: a dramatic loss of species and high carbon emissions—Sweden’s forestry sector now surpasses even the deforestation rate of the Amazon.
The images reveal the transformation of the forests and depict people who are dedicated to their protection and conservation: researchers, activists, Sámi, and individuals whose culture and work rely on intact forests.
The work invites us to engage in a dialogue with these landscapes, to question our own ideas of what a forest is—and to explore a relationship with nature grounded not in extraction, but in reciprocity and balance.

Mapping © Jon Andersson/ Forestinsight

2024 - ongoing

Sweden, along with Northern Europe, is home to some of the last remaining old-growth forests in Europe — part of the Taiga, the vast boreal forest belt that spans the Northern Hemisphere. These ecosystems, known as continuity forests, have been largely spared from deforestation and human interference, making them invaluable for biodiversity, carbon storage, and the way of life of the Indigenous Sámi. Yet, they are being destroyed at an alarming rate.

Since the 1950s, clear-cutting has been the dominant method in Swedish forestry, turning rich ecosystems into monoculture plantations that cannot restore their ecological functions and are highly vulnerable to environmental stress. This practice is a major driver of biodiversity loss, threatening countless species. The Sámi, whose reindeer herding depends on ancient forests for winter grazing, are particularly affected. Additionally, the forestry sector is Sweden’s largest source of emissions. Scientists warn that at the current logging rate, all unprotected valuable natural forests in Sweden could disappear by the 2070s, with devastating consequences for nature, climate, and culture.

Sweden’s unsustainable forestry practices surpass deforestation rates in the Amazon, driven by profit with little regard for ecological and cultural costs. Urgent change is needed to protect one of Europe’s last great natural treasures.

Mapping © Jon Andersson/ Forestinsight

» The large-scale destruction of old-growth forests in Sweden is largely overlooked and far less documented than deforestation in the tropics. Studies that shed light on this issue face resistance from the forestry industry in Sweden. The misconception of Sweden’s north as an untouched wilderness hides the reality of human-altered landscapes. Recognizing these natural ecosystems is crucial to preserving their complex and valuable biodiversity.«

Anders Ahlström, an associate professor at Lund University, studies the impact of humans on ecosystems, focusing on the conversion of natural boreal forests in Sweden

» The concept of the rights of nature, rooted in Indigenous peoples' connection to the land, emphasizes that humans are part of nature. We must recognize that by destroying forests, we are harming our own habitat. To bring about meaningful change, we must shift to nature-based forestry and rely on grassroots movements and direct action, as we can hardly rely on authorities, laws or certifications to do what is necessary. «

Karolina Carlsson leads Greenpeace Sweden’s forest campaigns, connecting Greenpeace, Forest Rebellion, and Sámi allies to support Indigenous rights and better forestry practices.

» Duodji, a Sámi craft deeply rooted in our culture, is closely tied to nature, whose rhythms inspire and guide the creative process. The connection between form and material must be harmonious, with intention and respect when gathering craft materials from the woods, taking only what is necessary. Duodji is not merely craft, but a way of life that shapes how we relate to the forest and nature. «

Johan Blind is a reindeer herder and former teacher who taught Duodji at Samernas Education Centre in northern Sápmi.

» For 40 years I have fought for the forests, witnessed countless clear-cuts and experienced a deep exhaustion. Many battles have been lost, but I have always found strength in moments of joy - teaching students, discovering new species and reconnecting with the child in me who chased butterflies in the garden. Naming a species feels like meeting a new friend, uncovering a new story. I sometimes wonder how I’ve managed to keep going, but I do, because it has to be done. When something vital is at risk, you fight for it, even without knowing if you’ll succeed. Nature isn’t separate from us; it’s part of who we are. «

Mats Karström, a biologist, conservationist, and teacher, pioneered a forest inventory method in the 1980s with his group “Steget Före”, which is used across Sweden. He has protected around 150 forests in his home region of Jokkmokk Kommun.

» My family was forced to leave northern Finland when clear-cutting ravaged the forests around us. Our livelihood, built on log cabin construction and nature tourism, vanished with the forests. I’ll never forget seeing my wife in tears in front of the first 30-hectare clear-cut. The state forestry office, which supplied our wood, threatened to sever ties when we protested the logging. We had to start over in northern Sweden, facing the same struggles as I refused to use clear-cut timber. To me, forestry must work in partnership with nature. Maintaining forest continuity is crucial, and sustainable practices that support biodiversity and ecosystem services are the only way forward. «

Meinrad Rohner, a Swiss-trained forester and log house builder, lives in Sweden with his Finnish wife. He is a passionate advocate for continuous cover forestry to preserve the forest’s natural structure.