The Uruguayan Forestry Producers Society (SPF) and PEFC Uruguay officially launched «Stories That Take Root,» a book that compiles 15 true stories of men and women connected to the forestry sector in Uruguay. The launch took place during Expo Prado and included interviews conducted by journalist Yisela Moreira, who spoke with three of the protagonists: Mariana Villemur, Pablo Diano, and Lorenzo Balerio.

The book originated from the “I Am a Forester” campaign, in which workers submitted their testimonials to share how forestry impacted their lives. The selected stories reflect a diversity of paths and dreams, and include the voices of:

Sergio González
Luis Rafael Normey
Lorenzo Balerio
Sebastian Arbeletch
Cristian Darío Aruel López
Gonzalo La Porta
Yohana Rodríguez
Mario Silvera
Pablo Domínguez
Gabriela Rodríguez
Mariana Villemur
Sabrina Luengo
Emilia Ferreira
María del Carmen Portela
Pablo Diano
Among the stories highlighted are, for example, that of Sebastián Arbeletch, who started as a driver in the construction of the Montes del Plata plant and, more than a decade later, continues to grow within the company; that of Yohana Rodríguez, who found in forestry an opportunity for professional development in her community; or that of Mario Silvera, who proudly recounts how working in the fields strengthened his family’s well-being.

The publication was printed on PEFC-certified paper, reaffirming the sector’s commitment to sustainability, and is available free of charge at SPF offices.

With Stories that Take Root, the Uruguayan forestry sector showcases not only its productive and environmental contribution, but also its human value: faces and experiences that, together with the forests, take root throughout the country.