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Professor Francis E. Putz calls for greater recognition of sustainable tropical forest management

13.03.2026

A recent scientific article by Professor Francis E. Putz from the University of Sunshine, Alexandra, Australia, calls for greater recognition of sustainable tropical forest management as a legitimate and effective conservation approach. The paper provides important insights that resonate strongly with ATIBT’s mission to promote responsible forest management in tropical regions.

In his article “Stop disregarding tropical forest management as a conservation option”, Professor Francis E. Putz argues that the debate on tropical forests is too often framed as a simplistic opposition between strict protection and destructive logging. In reality, he stresses that sustainably managed forests can maintain biodiversity, store carbon, and provide livelihoods, while avoiding conversion to agriculture or plantations.

Selective logging is already widespread in tropical forests because only a small fraction of trees produce commercially valuable timber. When harvesting is carefully planned and carried out at appropriate intervals, it can mimic natural disturbances and maintain forest ecosystems while producing wood and other forest goods and services.

The article also highlights the importance of reduced-impact logging practices, improved silviculture, certification systems, and better-trained forestry professionals. These approaches can significantly reduce environmental impacts, enhance carbon retention, and contribute to safer working conditions for forest workers.

Professor Putz ultimately calls for greater collaboration between conservation scientists and forest managers to improve tropical forest management rather than dismiss it. This message resonates strongly with ATIBT’s work to promote sustainable forest management in the Congo Basin and other tropical regions, demonstrating that responsible timber production can support both conservation goals and socio-economic development.

At a time when global demand for wood continues to grow, improving the management of natural tropical forests is not only realistic—it may be essential for their long-term preservation.

Read the full article here: Stop disregarding tropical forest management as a conservation option.

Tag(s) : Carbon Credit EFIR Study Sustainable forest management

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