Biodiversity conservation in Southeast Asian timber concessions: a critical evaluation of policy mechanisms and guidelines
Date
2008
Authors
Dennis, Rona A
Meijaard, Erik
Nasi, Robert
Gustafsson, Lena
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Resilience Alliance
Abstract
Tropical deforestation is leading to a loss of economically productive timber concessions,
as well as areas with important environmental or socio-cultural values. To counteract this threat in Southeast
Asia, sustainable forest management (SFM) practices are becoming increasingly important. We assess the
tools and guidelines that have been developed to promote SFM and the progress that has been made in
Southeast Asia toward better logging practices. We specifically focus on practices relevant to biodiversity
issues. Various regional or national mechanisms now inform governments and the timber industry about
methods to reduce the impact of production forestry on wildlife and the forest environment. However, so
many guidelines have been produced that it has become difficult to judge which ones are most relevant.
In addition, most guidelines are phrased in general terms and lack specific recommendations targeted to
local conditions. These might be reasons for the generally slow adoption of SFM practices in the region,
with only a few countries having incorporated the guidelines into national legislation. Malaysia, Indonesia,
and Laos are among the frontrunners in this process. Overall there is progress, especially in the application
of certification programs, the planning and management of high conservation value forests, the regulation
and control of hunting, and silvicultural management. To reduce further forest loss, there is a need to
accelerate the implementation of good forest management practices. We recommend specific roles for
governments, the forestry industry, and nongovernmental organizations in further promoting the
implementation of SFM practices for biodiversity conservation.
Description
Keywords
biodiversity conservation, certification, logging, Southeast Asia, sustainable forest management, timber production
Citation
Ecology and Society 13.1 article 25 (2008)
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Ecology and Society
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Journal article
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