Responsible forest harvesting, also known as sustainable forestry or sustainable logging, is an approach to managing forests in a manner that balances the social, economic, and environmental aspects of forest resources.
How Tropical Forests are Special
The first step in understanding sustainable forestry in Tropical forests is what makes a tropical forest unlike other forests. Tropical Biomes are a mixture of coexisting species of trees, wildlife, and plants. Most tropical species cannot be grown in plantations (What you might think of as a typical forest for harvesting where cycling between clear cutting and replanting is viable). Instead, Tropical forests rely on its diverse make up for its health. So sustainable harvesting involves going into the forest with a strategy that does not disturb this ecological balance.
Selective Harvesting
Based on the Forest Management Plan, harvesting teams carefully select specific trees within their working block. Temporary roads are constructed and designed to degrade and reestablish forests within 5 years of finishing operations. Once a team finishes within a Block, either by reaching the maximum quantity according to the plan or deciding to move to another block for other reasons the block is closed. A closed block will not be approved for harvest for a minimum of 40 years (typically much longer).
Additionally, Responsible forest harvesting identifies and protects high conservation value areas within the forest, such as sections with special species, critical habitats, water sources, and culturally important sites. These areas are often excluded from harvesting activities to preserve their ecological significance.
Finally, local communities and indigenous peoples who depend on the forest for their livelihoods and culture are engaged. Their rights and knowledge are respected, and efforts are made to include them in decision-making processes. Significant cultural zones are excluded from harvest zones.
Policing our Policies
Our Sustainable forestry practices are subject to monitoring and certification by independent organizations.The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensure that forests are managed responsibly and meet rigorous sustainability standards.
Sustainable forestry is an evolving practice and involves continuous learning and improvement. By adopting responsible forest harvesting practices, we can ensure that forests continue to provide vital ecosystem services, sustain biodiversity, support local communities, and supply essential wood forest products for generations to come..