Threats and Protection

Most forests, however different in climate and location,are threatened by unsustainable forestry practices, development and climate change. Because forests cover a vast area of land, cross political boundaries and affect a variety of issues including wildlife, development and water there are a number of laws that impact forests.

In the U.S., laws addressing forest conservation and management include the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) of 1976 and the Wilderness Act for National Forests and a variety of state and local laws governing private forest management.

Management of private and state forests is also being increasingly influenced by increased consumer interest in purchasing wood from well-managed forests, as certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Reasons for Hope

In March 2010, CITES moved to protect two South American trees used to make perfume, cosmetics, decorative objects and furniture - holywood (Bulnesia sarmientoi) and Brazilian rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora Ducke) - from most commercial trade.