Trends

The key trends in forest management are encapsulated in the National Forest Policy and the various initiatives that are supporting the NFP objectives. During the past two decades there has been a shift from largely unregulated logging to the use of logging bans as a means of controlling deforestation and forest degradation. More recently, Vanuatu has made decisive moves towards implementing a more holistic approach to forest management based on principles of sustainability. A range of initiatives (e.g. NFP, Code of Logging Practice, RIL and Sustainable Forest Utilisation Project) are demonstrating the country¿s commitment to sustainable forest management.

Promotion of sustainable forest management

Probably the most important programmes to promote sustainable forest management relate to the development of the Code of Logging Practice and associated Reduced Impact Logging Guidelines. Development of the Code of Logging Practice commenced in 1995. The Code is modelled on the existing Code of Conduct for Logging of Indigenous Forests in Selected South Pacific Countries. Various provisions of the Code (e.g. watercourse protection, cultural site management, post logging restoration, etc.) are being phased-in with full industry compliance with the Code achieved at the end of 2000. The Forestry Act was amended in October 1997 to provide a legal basis for preparing and amending the code and established strong penalties for breaches of it. Reduced Impact Logging guidelines have been prepared to complement the Code of Conduct. These provide practical guidance for translating the Code into field operations by developing specific guidelines for tasks such as tree marking, road and skid track construction, construction of landings, and post-harvest monitoring. The Department of Forests has established a demonstration forest area designed to show well-planned and executed logging that complies with the codes. This initiative has been used to provide a better appreciation of the benefits that well-managed forests can offer.

In 1995, Vanuatu commenced the implementation of a Sustainable Forest Utilisation Project. This AusAID-funded project was planned to provide assistance in improving forest management planning, as well as to minimize the environmental impacts of logging, promote participation by the ni-Vanuatu in harvesting and processing operations, and to maximize returns to landowners, industry and government through improved efficiency and better communication. Significant parts of the project workplan were designed to support the development and implementation of the Code of Practice.

last updated: Friday, May 13, 2005