Operational criteria for sustainable forestry: focussing on the essence

Abstract

Recent international agreements relating to forest practices are silent on operational criteria for sustainable forestry. Basic values to be sustained can be derived from the agreements. Goals for each value are presented that connect simply and directly with public concerns that inspired the agreements. For each goal a simple, relatively cheap means of monitoring is suggested that permits an operational approach. By focussing on the essence of international agreements, criteria for sustainable forestry are derived that are operational and scientifically credible, internationally credible, and socially responsible. Key words: criteria, forestry, sustainable