| Popis: |
The majority of ecologists either do not know, or quickly forget, that the first published record of sustainability originated from a book about forest management. In 1713, Hans Carl von Carlovitz wrote Sylvicultura Oeconomica to describe “the sustainable management of forest resources”. His intention was admittedly to manage the supply of timber, primarily for the silver mining industry. Nonetheless the concept of long-term management of resources to protect future yield as well as supplying present need can be attributed to him. The majority of foresters either do not know, or quickly forget, that part of the work of their professional body, the Institute of Chartered Foresters, is to “foster a greater public awareness and understanding of forestry in order to serve a variety of commercial, recreational, environmental and scientific interests.” To further this aim, the National School of Forestry, University of Cumbria, is participating in Timber Festival this summer. We hope to give people the opportunity to learn some forestry skills, but also to engage in public discussion of how sustainable forest management can be part of the solution to climate breakdown and biodiversity loss, while providing space for recreation, improving health and well-being, reducing flooding impacts and supplying the timber and other wood products we need. This article sets out how UK forestry currently contributes to combatting climate breakdown and biodiversity loss - the twin challenges of our time - and explains how managing commercial forest plantations protects rather than threatens our ancient semi-natural woodland. |
