How sustainable is BC’s Forestry Industry?

How sustainable is BC’s Forestry Industry?

I think BC’s Forestry Industry is sustainable, but not completely. In British Columbia, clearcutting has been the primary method of timber harvesting. It is preferred because it is an economical and is safe when harvesting large trees on steep slopes. Clearcutting is where all trees in a selected are all chopped down in a logging operation. This has a negative impact on the environment and can damage the structure and function of the forest. The loss of root structures affects water quality and that can lead to the loss and fragmentation of nutrient rich soil. So we may run into environmental problems if we continue to use clearcutting as a method. In the interior of BC, a silvicultural system is used. Also, the Forestry Industry’s total Export Value has increased. That means there is more demand for wood products. If this continues, then we might need to cut down more trees and add the potential threat to using clearcutting can lead to an unsustainable forest industry. But if the demand decreases, then we won’t need to cut down as many trees which means we will give some time for the forest to heal.

One Response

  1. brchan at |

    Did you find out how sustainable our silviculture practices are? That would be key to know in order to determine our sustainability.

    Reply

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