Canada and SFM (Sustainable Forest Management)

I do not believe that Canada is upholding our end of the bargain in regards to Sustainable Forest Management practices. It is my belief that Canada has good intentions, as we should for the fact that Canada accounts for 30% of the world’s boreal forest; however, we must implement realistic measures in order to maintain our beautiful forest. Not only does the forest provide an aesthetic value, but also produces a great deal of jobs and economic value. In regards to data collection, we must collect true data with which we can examine current trends, as well as extrapolate future trends. Currently, statistics are taken from federal forests such as, land operated by the Department of National Defence or the First Nations. This data is then consolidated for provincial statistics. Therefore, true data is not collected and no analysis can be conducted. This current process appears to serve no valuable function, as it is a mere logistical practice. There is no way to accurately track current management trends when data is not collected. Furthermore, I believe the Canadian government should have stiffer punishments for companies who commit illegal acts (both federal and provincial laws and legislations). Furthermore, I believe Canadian logging businesses should have to acquire more licensing requirements to ensure they are both abiding by Canadian laws as well as conducting business in a moral and ethical manner. No matter how we look at the issue, socially, morally, ethically, or environmentally, it is my belief that Canada has yet to “get in the game” with respect to Sustainable Forest Management. This issue is especially important to us, Canadians, as we depend on the forestry industry in our society.