The forestry sector, from growing trees to developing new products from cellulose and lignin, offers a world of careers.
Forestry and paper manufacturing may not be the industries that come to mind when considering education and career paths.
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, renewable materials, and innovation, the pulp and paper sector not only offers making greener materials, it also offers a growing range of opportunities, especially for job seekers and school leavers.
From packaging to tissues, magazines, newspapers, books and printing paper, the pulp and paper sector touches countless parts of daily life.
Behind these everyday essentials are teams of innovators, engineers, researchers and operational staff working to turn wood into high-value products.
Leané Naude, a former PAMSA Master’s student, is currently working as an engineer at Sappi Technology Centre. Image: Sappi
“Through various initiatives, we are encouraging people to explore the types of jobs available in our sector,” says Olga Bezuidenhout, executive of the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA).
“Our sector is more than just paper; it is rooted in sustainable forest management of approximately 1.2 million hectares, where trees are planted, grown, harvested and replanted in cycles, much like crops of wheat and corn.”
More than paper: a diverse industry
“For many years, PAMSA members have been making a range of products using cellulose – a key fibre found in wood.
In its various forms, cellulose is used in rayon and viscose textiles, cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and even electronics.
It’s an incredibly exciting time to be part of the industry.”
Everything that is made from plastic can also be made from a tree – whether it is the cellulose and lignin from trees, to waste and by-products from the manufacturing processes.
Renewable and remarkable
Wood is a carbon-neutral material.
As trees grow, they absorb CO₂ and store carbon in their trunks, branches and leaves.
When harvested responsibly, that carbon stays locked in the wood products we use – from packaging and furniture to clothing and construction materials.
Bezuidenhout adds, “What many don’t realise is that more than 30% of forestry-owned land is set aside for conservation – protecting biodiversity-rich grasslands, wetlands and indigenous forests.
Green innovation and a circular economy
“There are promising research projects developing advanced bio-based materials from pulp mill waste, exploring energy-efficient processing technologies, and leveraging digital tools to optimise forest growth and monitor environmental impact.
One such project is the conversion of fibre-rich waste from pulp and paper mill operations into ethanol using a specialised fermentation process.
Mahlogonolo Mafela, a junior process engineer at Mpact, pursued her Master’s in Engineering through the PAMSA Research Programme. Image: Mpact
“Ethanol is a versatile starting material that is used in the production of industrial chemicals, bio-based plastics and sustainable aviation fuel,” explains Bezuidenhout.
“This project is the result of over 10 years of research by Stellenbosch University’s Bioresource Engineering group in the Department of Chemical Engineering, and started as a research project and thesis by one of our Masters in Engineering students and today we have a South African first.
Behind the scenes
Chemical, mechanical and process engineers are central to the manufacturing process, optimising production and pioneering new ways to reduce waste, save energy and create novel products.
At the same time, machine operators, sawmillers, and product developers ensure that quality and efficiency remain high across the value chain.
There are numerous study and career paths for those interested in the sector.
There are all types of jobs and careers in the pulp and paper industry. It’s not just about growing trees and making paper. Image: Mondi
Diplomas and advanced diplomas are offered through TVET colleges and the Durban University of Technology, while Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Engineering degrees from registered South African universities are also a good stepping stone.
Like any large industry, companies rely on support services to function efficiently – human resources, finance and legal, to information technology, marketing, and health and safety.
All of these jobs play a crucial role in keeping mills and manufacturing plants running.
Find your fit in the future-facing industry
“Ours is not an industry of the past, but of the future.
The bioeconomy is where science meets sustainability and ideas meet innovation,” notes Bezuidenhout.
“However, there are other essential roles that people can play, whether in a process control room or an office. There is literally something for everyone.”
Learn more about the careers, training opportunities and innovations shaping the industry at www.thepaperstory.co.za, or follow @paperrocksza on social media.
