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Résumé :
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A framework for the implementation of sustainable forest management in Ireland is described in the IRISH NATIONAL FOREST STANDARD. It has a number of instruments including the CODE OF BEST FOREST PRACTICE, environmental guidelines relating to water quality, archaeology, landscape, harvesting and biodiversity, and the Forest Service inspection and monitoring systems, particularly in relation to grant-aided forestry. The CODE OF BEST FOREST PRACTICE is designed to ensure that forest operations in Ireland are carried out in a way which meets high environmental, social and economic standards. In Ireland, the establishment, management and harvesting of plantation forests for timber production dominate the forestry sector. The CODE OF BEST FOREST PRACTICE therefore focuses on the achievement of viable forests which conform to the principles of sustainable production and which are managed in a safe and environmentally acceptable manner respectful of society's expectations. The aim of the CODE OF BEST FOREST PRACTICE is to complement on an operational level that of Growing for the Future - A Strategic Plan for the Development of the Forestry Sector in Ireland (1): "To develop forestry to a scale and in a manner which maximises its contribution to national economic and social well-being on a sustainable basis and which is compatible with the protection of the environment." Particular emphasis is placed on ensuring that the various environmental, economic and social forest values are recognised in the context of criteria for sustainable forest management, and that adverse impacts associated with particular forest operations can be monitored and avoided or remedied. As most forests in Ireland are managed on a commercial basis, a careful balance between measures to protect the environment and measures to maintain forest productivity will be necessary. However, these are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Specific operational objectives are as follows: To maintain forest productivity through good silvicultural practice. To protect and enhance aquatic zones and water quality. To protect and enhance forests and forest ecosystems. To protect and enhance biodiversity. To identify and protect heritage areas, archaeological sites and artefacts within forest sites. To identify and protect Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs). To maintain and enhance visual amenities (private and public) and landscapes of importançe. To minimise the impact of forest operations off-site, both on communities and the environment. To identify and develop recreational potential, and to carry out forest operations in a manner which is compatible with these activities. To maintain forest health and vitality through protection against pests and diseases. To ensure forest operations are carried out safely. To ensure forest operations do not damage forests. To provide meaningful and productive employment. To ensure that forest operations are efficient and cost-effective. To comply with legislation.
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