Reaching the limits of our native forest resources – a policy and management analysis.

INTRODUCTION

General overview and background on the topic.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness that we are part of a global ecosystem. This may indicate a real concern for the increasing effect of human impact on the environment and recognition of the importance of a sustainable forest resource base; where the exploitation, preservation and development of our forests are not compromised for future generations. Forests are much more than a collection of trees. They are dynamic systems containing incredible biodiversity and natural beauty. They also support a substantial industry, provide a home for our native fauna and flora and bring in millions of tourist dollars. Above all, they possess a major carbon storage function. Use of our forests has always been controversial, with disagreements over distribution and degree of environmental degradation.
Although there may be no consensus, it is suggested that the impact of forest degradation in Australia has been extens...