A Quantitative Approach for Assessing and Monitoring the Social Licence of Forestry to Operate: A New Zealand Case Study

ABSTRACT Social Licence to Operate (SLO) is an increasingly strategic concern in forestry, yet its evaluation remains largely qualitative. This study presents the first quantitative framework for assessing SLO in New Zealand's forestry sector, adapted from the Boutilier and Thomson model, originally developed for the mining sector. The framework integrates trust constructs with sector‐specific indicators aligned to the triple‐bottom‐line—social, environmental and well‐being dimensions. A survey across nine wood supply regions revealed significant regional variation, with institutional trust (2.60) and environmental approval (2.75) scoring lowest. The overall SLO score of 2.9 reflects an ‘acceptance’ level. Reliability was confirmed (Cronbach's α > 0.84). These findings highlight the need for improved transparency, community engagement and ecological stewardship. The framework enables systematic monitoring and strategic response to stakeholder expectations. By quantifying SLO and linking it to sustainability metrics, this research advances evidence‐based governance and supports sustainable production in New Zealand's forestry sector.