"Animals and nature have always been closest to my heart. But as I’ve seen and heard more about the exploitation of nature, both through media and with my own eyes, my commitment has grown," says Marielle.
From Frustration to Action
For a long time, Marielle felt frustrated standing on the sidelines, watching as “forest after forest just disappeared.” She started looking for educational programs to better understand why Swedish forestry looks the way it does – and how she could contribute to change it herself.
"I was tired of just standing by and watching. When I discovered the Forest and Landscape program, I realized this was the right education for me. Traditional forestry programs have never been particularly appealing, but this program is something different," she says.
The Dream: Sustainable Forestry
Marielle’s goal is clear – she wants to contribute to transforming Swedish forestry.
"We face enormous challenges with climate change and biodiversity loss. I want to work for forestry methods that avoid clear-cutting and are closer to nature, as well as for the preservation of valuable continuous-cover forests. The forest is so much more than just an economic resource; it’s part of the entire landscape and our future," she says.
“It’s Amazing to Study Something I’m Passionate About”
Studying something she’s passionate about has given Marielle extra motivation.
"It’s absolutely amazing! I feel my motivation to learn more growing all the time. Sometimes it even feels like time is going by too fast, she says with a laugh.
She highlights that the program offers a unique perspective, viewing forests as part of a larger landscape and incorporating an international outlook.
"It’s a broad education that shows forests are so much more than just economic assets. We need to view forestry from multiple perspectives, and the international perspective is something we should definitely integrate more into Swedish forestry. Here, I’m gaining the tools I need to contribute to that change," she explains.
Ready to Face Future Challenges
When it comes to climate change, Marielle feels the program has provided her with a key takeaway – the importance of collaboration and facts.
"The future of forestry needs to be transparent, fact-based, and built on collaboration. This program has given me both the knowledge and perspectives to contribute to that. Forestry is a polarized issue, but I believe we can find solutions together," she concludes.
