Study published by Nature in april 2024 explores the effects of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification on large mammal populations in tropical logging concessions across Africa. Researchers collected over 1.3 million camera-trap images and found that mammal encounter rates, particularly for species over 10 kg such as forest elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees, were significantly higher in FSC-certified areas compared to non-certified regions. These findings highlight the role of FSC certification in mitigating logging-related impacts like hunting and habitat degradation, thereby contributing to better biodiversity outcomes in these regions.
The study's analysis suggests that FSC-certified areas serve as more effective conservation zones, even within working forests, by reducing the threats associated with logging. Certified regions had more favorable conditions for wildlife, likely due to stricter regulations and monitoring that help limit hunting and protect vital habitats. The benefits of certification extend beyond logging practices to support larger ecosystem functions, promoting healthier populations of threatened species.
The research emphasizes the importance of expanding FSC certification as a global standard for tropical timber extraction. By ensuring that forests are managed sustainably, FSC certification could become a critical tool in preserving biodiversity in tropical ecosystems, particularly for large mammals vulnerable to deforestation and poaching. The study advocates for stronger adoption of certified forest management to balance economic use with the need to conserve critical wildlife habitats in the face of expanding logging activities.
The study underscores the importance of purchasing FSC-certified tropical timber as a way to support sustainable forestry and biodiversity conservation. By choosing certified timber, consumers contribute to forest management practices that safeguard large mammal populations, reduce illegal hunting, and maintain habitat integrity. This helps ensure that timber production can coexist with wildlife preservation, fostering healthier ecosystems. The study strongly advocates for FSC certification as a standard for tropical timber extraction, making consumer choices pivotal in driving responsible forestry practices.
For more details, visit please visit Nature article.
Zwerts, J.A., Sterck, E.H.M., Verweij, P.A. et al. FSC-certified forest management benefits large mammals compared to non-FSC. Nature 628, 563–568 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07257-8
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