Jobs to be proud of
In addition, the forest industry supports about 31,000 indirect jobs by buying things like equipment and high-tech tools from thousands of local companies. They also hire people working for businesses big and small to provide a whole range of services from doing repairs, to moving their products to providing environmental consulting.
The industry also supports 20,000 induced jobs in business – for example, restaurants or corner stores where workers employed by forest product companies and industry suppliers spend their paychecks in their local communities.
Investing in BC's future
Over 10 years between 2013 and 2022, BC forest product companies invested $15.8 billion on their operations and in repair and maintenance activities to upgrade equipment and add capacity to produce more of the sustainably produced, low-carbon products that are in demand around the world.
Forest product companies also spend a significant amount of money to keep forests healthy, plant trees and keep our air clean. This includes investing in new technologies that help operations use less energy, fuel and water and reduce their carbon footprint.
Economic impact benefitting the quality of life for British Columbians
According the Economic Impact Study published in 2024, BC’s forest industry remains a top economic driver in the province – with benefits flowing to people and communities in every region. The provincial forestry sector generated over $17.4 billion in GDP, and contributed $6.6 billion in payments to municipal, provincial and federal governments in 2022. This revenue helps governments pay for healthcare, education, affordable housing and other services British Columbians count on.
Useful Links & Resources
Report:
2024 Economic Impact Report
Fact Sheet:
BC’s Forest Industry: Cornerstone of Our Economy
Fact Sheet:
Forestry Jobs are Locally Grown
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