Focus on Arts and Ecology

In the past decade there has been much debate regarding whether primary tropical forests can be logged in a sustainable way, and whether such activities should qualify for support under REDD+ and certification programmes. While some advocate that reduced impact logging can lead to positive outcomes for the forest, others contest that primary forests should be excluded from these schemes. One of the main reasons cited for preventing further incursions into primary forests, in particular large intact forest areas, is that once access is introduced, it is difficult to prevent unregulated access, illegal logging, and conversion to other land uses. It has also been argued that logging in itself generates significant carbon emissions and creates vulnerability in terms of natural disturbances, most notably drought, fire, and pests.
This paper examines the multiple stressors posed by logging in tropical forests and responses observed in different regions, and the ability of these ecosystems to maintain their biodiversity, structure and function. It examines what is known regarding the ability of these systems to maintain their resilience, thresholds and tipping points beyond which tropical forest is unlikely to return to its original condition, and the secondary consequences of introducing access, particularly in areas of poor governance. In light of these findings, recommendations are made as to what role REDD+ and forest certification could play in reversing the decline of tropical forests.