Social determinants of Chilean forestry workers: A challenge for sustainable industry development

Abstract

Objective

This study aims to identify the social determinants (SD) that influence employment in Chile’'s forestry sector. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by examining the interaction between various social determinants and the likelihood of individuals working in the forestry sector.

Methodology

To achieve this objective, data from the 2022 National Socioeconomic Characterization Survey, was used. 7700 people were included in this study. SDs were categorized into five groups according to the ESG criteria for social perspective: diversity; wage gap; employment benefits; workplace safety; and social programs. A probit model was used to determine average marginal effects. The model classified 92.7 % of the data accurately.

Results

Individuals most likely to work in the forestry sector are predominantly male, with lower educational levels, aged between 35 and 65, under fixed-term contracts, belonging to the lowest income quintiles, without economic or food incentives, facing health and nutrition issues due to lack of funds, and lacking access to communication or the Internet.

Conclusion

Workers in the forestry industry exhibit high social vulnerability, far from the social determinants established in ESG standards.

Value

This study of the Chilean forestry industry highlights the social dimension of ESG based on secondary data, differing from those published by companies. Studies of this type contribute to generating greater transparency and trust among stakeholders, thus promoting the formulation of policies and business strategies that help improve employment conditions in the forestry sector within the context of persistent inequalities.