Skogsareal

Skogsareal is a term used in Swedish forestry and land-use statistics to denote the land area classified as forest or woodland where trees predominate. It refers to the extent of forested land, typically measured in hectares, and is used to describe forest resources independent of ownership or management.

The concept is commonly subdivided into productive forest area (produktiv skogsmark) and non-productive forest area (icke-produktiva skogsmarker), the latter including sites with tree cover but limited potential for timber production due to factors such as mire, water, or steep terrain.

Skogsareal data come from national statistics and forestry agencies, notably the Swedish Forest Agency (Skogsstyrelsen) and Statistics Sweden (SCB). The data underpin forest planning, climate research, biodiversity assessments, and policy development. Internationally, skogsareal is reported in some land-use and forestry statistics.

Economically, skogsareal supports timber, pulp, and bioenergy production; environmentally, it relates to carbon storage, habitat connectivity, and water regulation. Management decisions—such as afforestation, harvest levels, and protection measures—are often guided by changes in skogsareal and its subdivisions.