About SAF

Supporting Sweden's arborists through shared standards and long-term stewardship

Sveriges Arboristforbund SAF brings together practitioners, educators, and advocates who want tree care in Sweden to be safer, more skilled, and more visible as a professional discipline.

Tree-lined urban landscape representing the long-term care of managed green spaces in Sweden.
History

An organization shaped by field experience

Sveriges Arboristforbund SAF was formed from the need for a stronger professional home for arborists working in climbing, pruning, inspection, training, and tree preservation. As arboriculture expanded in Swedish municipalities, private estates, and public landscapes, practitioners needed a place to exchange knowledge and raise common standards.

From its early network-building efforts to its present role as a federation for members and partners, SAF has focused on making practical expertise easier to share and professional expectations clearer across the sector.

Mission

Advancing arboriculture with practical impact

SAF's mission is to support professional arborists with the knowledge, network, and continuing education needed to care for trees responsibly. The federation promotes strong field practice, better decision-making, and a more connected profession that can respond to the demands of modern tree care.

That work includes strengthening safety culture, supporting technical learning, and creating opportunities for members to meet, compare methods, and build a shared language around quality in arborist work.

Knowledge Sharing methods and experience that improve practice in the field.
Safety Reinforcing responsible operations and professional risk awareness.
Community Connecting arborists, educators, and partners across Sweden.
Natural Swedish landscape showing the broader environments where arborists work.
SAF supports arborists working across cities, parks, estates, and varied natural settings.
Arborists standing together during a collaborative outdoor session.
Professional standards grow when practitioners keep learning together.
Values

What guides the federation

  • Professional integrity in tree care decisions, communication, and execution.
  • Respect for trees as long-term assets in both public and private landscapes.
  • Commitment to continuing education at every level of experience.
  • Collaboration between practitioners, educators, and sector partners.
  • Clear advocacy for safe methods and responsible arboricultural practice.
Next Step

See how SAF turns its mission into training, events, and member activity