Abstract
Awareness of human–forest relationships offers a basis for meaningful forest policy participation. However, weakening connections to forests, particularly among young people, hamper youth inclusion in policy arenas. We consider the use of arts-based methods as knowledge practices that nurture human–forest relationships and may promote inclusive policies. Arts-based methods, such as photography, music, or drama, offer insights and elicit opinions. Within the forest domain, exploiting such methods requires better understanding of how participants perceive them. Here we present two cases where young people (17–30 years) unfold their forest relationships. Following prompted retrospective reflections, we qualitatively analyse participant perceptions of the interventions. Case one is an innovation workshop blending art and science, where young research participants joined artists and environmental and forest scientists. Case two is a writing exercise for young research participants, where a hip-hop/rap video about laser scanning and the role of forests in climate change was used to catalyse participants’ reflections. Analysis applied the tripartite model of attitude comprising cognitive, affective, and behavioural dimensions. The workshop results emphasise benefits of networking and fruitful reflections, coupled with unequal participation concerns. The video experience yielded a range of thoughts and emotions, including excitement and invitingness, but also irritation, doubts over its influence, and no explicit behavioural intentions. The findings suggest that realising the opportunities of arts-based knowledge practices requires time and space for ensuring that young people’s voices are heard. More inclusive participation of youth in formal and informal forest policy dialogue calls for careful facilitation and means to secure continuation.
Highlights
Youth Inclusion as a Forest Policy Challenge Recent forest policy literature has argued for the need to enhance participation of citizens in policy processes and discussions (Kleinschmit et al, 2018; Mustalahti, 2018)
In this article we discuss whether arts-based methods could prevent alienation of young people from forests and support their inclusion in forest policy dialogue
In this study we focus on how art–science interventions are received among young participants and how those practices prepare them for policy dialogue and action
Summary
Youth Inclusion as a Forest Policy Challenge Recent forest policy literature has argued for the need to enhance participation of citizens in policy processes and discussions (Kleinschmit et al, 2018; Mustalahti, 2018). Alongside more urban living and lifestyles, people tend to have less direct experiences and interactions with nature (Schuttler et al, 2018). With this detachment, people becoming less familiar with forestry concepts translates into weaker capabilities for participating in forest policy dialogue. Saarikoski, Tikkanen and Leskinen (2010) found that Finnish regional forest policy actors have recognised increasing alienation from nature and nature-based livelihoods among youth and young adults as a major future threat to the forest sector. In this article we discuss whether arts-based methods could prevent alienation of young people from forests and support their inclusion in forest policy dialogue
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
