Rewilding is a method that aims to re-establish animal and plant species that have disappeared from a particular area. In a new study, a research team, led by Lund University, has investigated how the method affects the world's forests. The researchers have studied forests that are left to manage themselves to varying degrees until they are harvested. A number of parameters have been studied. These were then compared with forests managed using traditional management methods.
– We explore the limitations of conventional forestry practices, such as intensive management of monocultural plantations where only one tree species is grown. Instead, the study presents rewilding-inspired forestry as an alternative to restore ecological processes and improve the resilience and sustainability of forest landscapes globally, says Lanhui Wang, researcher in Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science at Lund University.
New findings challenge current forestry practices
The researchers argue that the new findings challenge current forestry practices that focus mainly on short-term economic gains and simplified forest ecosystems. Instead, they propose a strategy inspired by rewilding. The benefits are many. A rewilded forest means, among other things, increased carbon storage and biodiversity, and improved social-ecological resilience.
– By promoting forests that are more adaptable to climate change, rewilding-inspired forestry can become a pathway to conserve nature and support human well-being in the Anthropocene, says Lanhui Wang.
The study offers strategies that can be applied at multiple levels - from local forest management to global policy frameworks. The study serves as a practical guide, for example around the promotion of natural regeneration, the reintroduction of key species and assisted migration. Such a guide could be useful for policy makers, land managers and conservation agencies striving to restore ecosystem integrity and sustainability.
– By moving from productivity-centred practices to ecological sustainability, society can achieve lasting environmental, economic and social benefits. Our study helps communities and policy makers make informed decisions for a sustainable future, says Lanhui Wang.
In addition to Lund University, the following universities have participated in the work: Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Copenhagen, University of Augsburg, Aarhus University.
The study is published in the scientific journal One Earth: ‘Transforming forest management through rewilding: Enhancing biodiversity, resilience, and biosphere sustainability under global change’
This text is a translation from the original article in Swedish by Johan Joelsson at lu.se