Bringing the forest to the stage: FSC collaborates on theatre play ‘Three Words for Forest’

At the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), our work is often rooted in standards, scientific data, and the tangible metrics of sustainable forest management. Yet, we recognize that the future of our forests is not just a matter of policy; it is a profoundly human endeavor. With this in mind, we are proud to announce our collaboration on Three Words for Forest, an innovative theatrical production that explores the complexities of our relationship with the natural world.

Three Words for Forest is a compelling project that steps away from conventional environmental advocacy. Instead, it invites the audience into the lives of those who steward our woodlands. The play is built upon a series of candid interviews with forestry specialists, capturing the diverse voices of people working on the frontlines of conservation. Through their narratives, the production delves into the urgent challenges, the complexities, and the quiet, persistent hopes and fears of managing forests in an era defined by the climate crisis.

For FSC, engaging with the performing arts represents a vital shift in how we communicate the importance of sustainable forest management. While scientific reports and certification criteria provide the roadmap for a sustainable future, storytelling provides the emotional framework necessary to inspire action. By supporting Three Words for Forest, we aim to foster a deeper, more empathetic connection between the public and the stewards of the land. We believe that by humanizing the forestry profession, we can better articulate why sustainable management is not just a technical necessity, but a moral imperative.

Some words from the play:

And… we should conserve the forests but at the same time use them because we need wood in our life and we’ve always needed it… We need to cut some trees and at the same time let’s do it well.

Public perception is probably the biggest single threat.

We’re going to have to make some mistakes, because if we’re not making mistakes then we’re not trying enough different things.

There’s a great paradox, even though things are really urgent, we have to slow down. We have to actually stop what we’re doing, stop and rethink forestry!

Our biggest renewable resource as a species is creativity... I think people will adapt.

One of the most exciting aspects of this collaboration is its commitment to accessibility. The production is free to access, ensuring that this message can reach classrooms, community groups, and individuals around the world. To further support this engagement, the project includes a range of discussion and learning resources, designed to help viewers unpack the themes raised in the play and facilitate meaningful conversations about the future of our planet.

Whether you are a student, a professional in the sector, or simply a concerned citizen looking to better understand the realities of forest life in the 21st century, Three Words for Forest offers a unique, reflective experience. It challenges us to look beyond the trees and consider the human stories that underpin our global commitment to forest stewardship.

We are delighted to see this innovative work out in the world and invite our community to engage with it. You can watch the play and explore the educational resources for free at https://threewordsforest.org.uk/.

 For more information, contact Ewa Hermanowicz e.hermanowicz@fsc.org