The Economics of Forestry free essay sample

A discussion of the economics of timber as the major product currently harvested from forests. This paper addresses the economic issues related to the timber industry. Opposing ideologies of economists and ecologists are presented. Areas discussed include a deforestation in industrialized and developing countries, analysis and management of timber production, and policy making. The writer concludes that economists and ecologists must work together to solve the problem. Timber is the major product currently harvested from forests. Timber is used in a variety of products ranging from houses to paper and paperboard products. Long ago it seemed as if the supply of wood from forests was abundant and as if there would always be enough to provide everything that we could possibly need. However, recently we have realized that this is not the case. Timber is a major source of income and has become necessary to sustain out life-style as we know it. We will write a custom essay sample on The Economics of Forestry or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page There has been a clash of ideology between ecologists and economists. Ecologists point out that forests have many other benefits besides just providing timber and are quick to point out that we need them to reduce the level of green house gases and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Economists are equally as quick to point out that we need timber to sustain our economy and cannot just simply quit cutting the trees. Herein lies the dilemma, how do we continue to use forests to sustain a viable income and still ensure that this can continue into the future? The two sides of this issue have often met on violent terms.