As previously noted, the topic of sustainability is central to global debates regarding forest sector policies, whether expressed in terms of biodiversity and conservation or in the context of timber harvest levels. It is recommended that a carefully developed study component address the issues of definition, appropriate indicators or measurement of sustainability, and the means and transition policies that might be adopted (or imposed) in individual countries of the Asia Pacific Region. Conceptual and logical consensus on the probable scope and quantification of sustainability is critically needed, together with the feasibility of alternative means to obtain international cooperation in promoting the common interest. How sustainability is pursued and over what time horizon will be central to the Region's commercial forestry outlook.
