Forests and people: Towards a more robust knowledge base on health, well-being and small-scale private forest owners
Formas funds interdisciplinary research on how Swedish forests affect human health and well-being and the motivations of small-scale private forest owners.
Funder: Formas
Due Dates: May 12, 2026 (Call opens) | September 16, 2026 (Application deadline) | November 17, 2026 (Funding decision)
Funding Amounts: Up to 7.5 million SEK for 3-year projects; up to 10 million SEK for 4-year projects; total call budget up to 80 million SEK.
Summary: Supports interdisciplinary research on the relationship between Swedish forests, human health and well-being, and the motivations of small-scale private forest owners.
Key Information: Projects must be clearly relevant to the Swedish context and led by researchers at approved Swedish institutions.
Description
This grant from Formas funds research projects that deepen the understanding of the links between forests and people in Sweden. The focus is on two main perspectives: (1) the importance of forests for human health and well-being, and (2) the conditions and motivations of small-scale private forest owners. The aim is to address knowledge gaps regarding how forests contribute to public health, mental well-being, recreation, and cultural identity, as well as how the decisions and motivations of small-scale private forest owners shape forest management and its societal benefits. Projects are expected to generate robust knowledge to inform decision-making and increase the societal value of forests, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
