Authors:
Sayer, J, and S. Maginnis (eds.)
Publication Date:
2005
Abstract/Summary:
This leads us to the overall conclusion that it is unhelpful to focus too much on any one formula for forest management. The future of forestry should lie in pluralism. Every forest system is different in its biophysical, economic, social and political attributes. Every situation needs a response tailored to its present needs and these needs will inevitably change over time. The skill of the forest manager is to be able to draw upon the rich literature on the ecology, economics and social values of forests and work with all stakeholders to develop the best management regime for the location at that point in time. The forester then has to stay engaged and be alert to the need to change management when the time comes to do so. We do not believe in management by formula or by any single “cookie-cutter” approach, guideline or criteria and indicator set. However we do conclude that the CBD Ecosystem Approach Principles and their supporting documentation are an excellent resource for forest managers and should be widely consulted and the Principles should be respected. We also conclude that the recent literature on sustainable forest management and the numerous sets of criteria and indicators that have been developed to monitor and evaluate its performance also represent valuable sources of guidance and accumulated knowledge and make valuable contributions to addressing the challenge of better management of forests worldwide.
Resource Type:
Technical Document
Source:
Earthscan