Forests are an essential part of life on this planet. If our planet is a single organism, then forests are its lungs. Deforestation is one of the most destructive problems today. Trees absorb the carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere from human activities and help mitigate climate change.
In addition, forest biomass, including trees, is a storehouse of carbon, and therefore billions of tons of carbon are released into the atmosphere when they are cut.
The solution to the problem at this stage is sustainable forest management. It implies the conscious use of timber to meet the needs of present and future generations. Technology helps a lot to manage sustainable forestry. Various companies such as EOSDA in satellite imagery analytics, for example, offer solutions for management and precision forestry.
In this piece, we will talk about the problem of deforestation. You will also find here information on what sustainable forestry is, what it is and how it can help solve it.
What is deforestation?
Deforestation means the loss of trees due to human activities. As a rule, this phenomenon occurs to make room for agricultural land, building, cattle breeding, timber extraction. It leads to various negative consequences, including climate change, extinction of biological species inhabiting forests, soil erosion, and much more.
We’ve already talked about carbon emissions that negatively affect climatic conditions, but carbon is not the only greenhouse gas associated with deforestation. Do not forget about water vapor. The exchange between the atmosphere and the earth’s surface is also affected by deforestation. And this is also a massive problem in today’s climate system, which affects weather conditions and the climate model in general.
What is sustainable forestry?
Sustainable forestry is a set of methods and practices that mimic the natural processes of disturbance and restoration. The purpose of applying this concept is to maintain a balance in the wild, the environment, and the forest community while conserving forest resources for future generations. Sustainable forest practices are designed to balance economic, social, and environmental sustainability and ensure a long-term future for forests.
Forestry personnel survey the land and determine the area where trees can be cut down. It is about pruning timber or cutting down large and old trees to support diversified growth. In essence, it works so that humanity recognizes its need for forest resources and cares about the long-term existence of forests and the preservation of the environment.
Sustainable forestry elements
Unique carbon cycle is the main element of sustainable forestry. Carbon emissions from decomposing trees perpetuate climate change. However, they can be collected and used to make everyday products and thus keep the trees from decaying by releasing carbon back into the atmosphere. It is also possible to offset carbon emissions by planting new trees that capture greenhouse gases and protect soils.
Economic Viability & Reforestation: Sustainable forestry does not profit from tree felling. In contrast, the industry benefits from the reforestation process. Sustainable companies are engaged in reforestation, that is, the deliberate planting of trees. The planted trees provide the necessary habitat, absorb carbon and filter the water. At the same time, companies plant more trees than they use in production.
Social sustainability is also a critical element of the concept of sustainability in forestry. This element involves the transfer of property to residents. Organizations are working on reforestation with pastoralists on their land. Local people can be involved in sustainable agriculture in a variety of ways. One of these ways is employment.
Final Thoughts
Deforestation negatively affects the environment and contributes to climate change. Forests store greenhouse gases and release oxygen, which is vital to life on the planet. Sustainable forestry offers a range of methods to help meet the needs of humans and nature. It is also about reforestation and reducing the number of trees cut down for manufacturing, agriculture, and building.
