Description
Book SynopsisDeforestation is frequently a topic of discussion in the environmental arena, but it is not just the number of trees that matters; the quality of the forest is also important. Even where the forest area is stable or increasing, there are often rapid changes in its character. Natural forests are being replaced by plantations or by intensively managed forests. Around the world, forests are becoming younger and less diverse, in both species and structure; this has important impacts for biodiversity and also affects many human values.
In this groundbreaking text, forest quality is discussed as a useful new concept in forest conservation and management. Three main assessment criteria are used: authenticity; environmental benefits; and social and economic benefits. The book describes a methodology and protocol for collecting and analysing
data, and outlines in detail the approach required with each indicator. The authors advocate a landscape approach to assessment and demonstrate how
assessment works through a series of case studies that show how this approach can be used in many ways to help forest conservation management.
This hands-on manual is for professionals involved in forestry, conservation and resource management worldwide, and contains case study material from Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America that demonstrates practical uses of the new 'landscape' approach to forest conservation.
Published with IUCN and WWF
Table of ContentsPart 1: Measuring Forest Quality * What is Forest Quality? * Why Assess Forest Quality at a Landscape Scale? * Who Should Assess Forest Quality? * How to Assess Forest Quality at a Landscape Scale * Part 2: Criteria of Forest Quality * Forest Authenticity and Prioritizing Conservation * Environmental Benefits of Forest Quality * Social and Economic Benefits of Forest Quality * Part 3: Case Studies * Part 4: Appendices - Broader Issues and Sources of Information * References * Index
