Abstract :
Forests are the epitome of diversity. In the words of late forest geneticist, Gene Namkoong, “It is our obligation not to abuse this complex system through ignorance. We must avoid management which would simplify forests to manufacturing factories and, at the same time, we must not attempt to restore or preserve a world that never existed.” Many values derive from forests at the level of ecosystems, species, populations and genes. Forests and forest plantations are used and managed for a wide range of different purposes. They supply vitally important environmental services, such as soil and water conservation and carbon storage, and provide habitats for inumerable species of animals, plants, insects and micro-organisms. Products available from them include various goods provided by trees and other components of the ecosystem, including stems, nuts and fruits, leaves, tannins and resins, dyes and medicines, as well as animal protein and products. Cultural and spiritual values are often attached to forests and forest groves and, importantly, forests also help meet recreation needs of increasingly urbanized human populations.
