Swedish Soil: Soil Science and Forest Conservation, 1902-1938

During early 20th century, the "regeneration question" was heavily debated within Swedish forestry sector. The regeneration question originated from an observation, stating that Swedish forest's regrowth rate seemed lower than their cutting rate. Therefore, foresters and politicians feared that the nation's forests eventually would transform into useless wastelands. The aim of this dissertation is to analyze a group of influential scientists that participated in these discussions, namely a group of soil scientists working at a state led research institution. Focus is set on the ideas and worldviews which the scientists brought to the debate.

During the early 20th century, Swedish forest use changed dramatically. The discussions within the forest management became focused on regrowth and conservation. The thesis deals with soil science and soil biological research in relation to these discussions. The aim is to analyze associations between science, forest politics and ideas of forest conservation during 1902-1938.

During the early 20th century, Swedish forest use changed dramatically. The discussions within the forest management became focused on regrowth and conservation. The thesis deals with soil science and soil biological research in relation to these discussions. The aim is to analyze associations between science, forest politics and ideas of forest conservation during 1902-1938.