State forests director Datuk Hamden Mohammad (right) and Sarawak Timber Association chairman Datuk Henry Lau (third right) launching the reduced impact logging handbook at the conference in Kuching.
KUCHING: Efforts are being made to improve the implementation of sustainable forest management for better environmental protection in Sarawak, says state forests director Datuk Hamden Mohammad.
He said timber harvesting operations had been reduced to about two million square metres per year to balance environmental conservation with economic needs.
He also said strict requirements were imposed on forest management certification for both natural and planted forests.
"We currently have 25 certified natural forests covering over 2.2 million hectares, as well as seven certified forest plantations covering approximately 97,000ha," he said at an international conference on sustainable management of tropical forests here on Wednesday (March 6).
The two-day conference, held in conjunction with the International Day of Forests on March 21, also saw the launch of a handbook on reduced impact logging (RIL).
The handbook, an adaptation of the harmonised RIL Guideline for ground-based timber harvesting in Sarawak, can assist ground personnel in effectively implementing RIL practices.
Hamden said the guideline marked a significant stride towards standardising timber harvesting practices and enhancing regulation within Sarawak's timber industry.
He said the department would continue to engage with stakeholders to achieve sustainable forest management goals, provide support in capacity building, and leverage technology applications in forest management.
He added that it will also intensify research and development to support decision-making and support Sarawak's timber industry in sustainable forest management.
