FORESTRY

The forest is needed for its wood, which is the primary raw material required to make paper and wood-based products. Wood is a totally renewable raw material, and when transformed into a manufactured product it is natural, adaptable and recyclable.

The benefits of forests
Wood is one of the very few materials used by a major industry, which is infinitely self-renewing. Apart from the supply of industrial raw material, forests also:
- Soak up CO2 and produce oxygen, thereby helping to counteract the "Greenhouse effect";
- Help to stabilise the climate and water levels;
- Prevent soil erosion in the forest area;
- Store solar energy;
- Provide habitat for wildlife and plants;
- Offer recreational facilities.
Forests not only provide resources for industry, they also have a wide range of functions. They provide employment and income opportunities for rural communities and are valuable recreational and inspirational assets offering a beautiful landscape. Forests also contain a rich diversity of animals and plants whose habitats and environment need to be maintained. A mosaic of forest management of varying intensities, with multi-benefit silviculture, and diverse land-use planning are the means by which the sustainability goal can be achieved.

(taken from www.paperonline.org)