Sustainability of Nordic non-timber forest product-related businesses – A case study on bilberry

Abstract

Nordic forests settings are characterised by private forest ownership and free access to forests, creating a specific societal context for harvesting non-timber forest products (NTFPs). The aim of this study is to define the set of criteria and indicators (C&I) to evaluate the sustainability of NWTPs' commercial supply chains in the Nordic forests. The set of C&I, including 13 sub-criteria and 48 indicators, was defined based on earlier research. As a case study, the developed set of C&I was tested with four bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) supply chains. Experts evaluated the fulfilment of indicators in each chain, and example consumers gave weights to the criteria. The results reveal that there is a lack of sustainability especially in social dimension, for example in involving forest owners and the local community. Weights given by the example consumers highlight their preferences, in this case rights of employees. The set of C&I defined serves especially companies operating in NTFP businesses; it helps to perceive the sustainability gaps in operations of companies. Moreover, the set of C&I is a tool to promote discussions with stakeholders and test the sustainability of new business models for the developing branch of business. As a next step, the C&I defined needs to be further tested in different levels and with different NTFPs.