Study finds biodiversity measures in production forests lower average profitability by five percent
Researchers from Wageningen University and the University of Freiburg reviewed global studies on how conservation measures affect forest operations.
Financial impact of conservation steps
The team analyzed 53 studies containing 814 different management scenarios. In 41 of those studies, financial results were worse than standard business practices. Across the entire dataset, calculated profitability dropped by an average of five percent compared to operations without conservation measures.
Specific actions under review
Scenarios included delaying harvests, keeping specific trees alive, and preserving deadwood on site. Other strategies involved increasing the number of tree species within a single stand. These actions represent a shift away from traditional business-as-usual management methods.
Role of ecosystem benefits
The financial picture changes when analysts include potential insurance value against climate change. Additional factors like lower operational costs and higher-quality timber also factor into the calculation. Accounting for these benefits can alter the overall assessment of forest management strategies.
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