The global awareness of tropical forest deforestation, degradation and the role that improved forest management could play in reducing carbon dioxide emissions has resulted in a heightened interest in Reduced Impact Logging (RIL).  Although some important research has already been conducted on this topic, additional studies are required to support the emerging carbon markets and inform the many tropical-producing countries of the opportunities available. 

To date, initial studies carried out by the University of Florida have shown that substantial reductions of global CO2 emissions can be achieved by improving forest management in the tropics. There is a total area of 350 million hectares of tropical forests designated as production forest. Exploited for timber, these forests are suffering from the growing demand for forest access and the expansion of logging across the globe. For every tree logged for use, some 10-20 others are severely damaged by untrained fellers and machine operators working in the field. Studies have shown that by implementing basic RIL techniques, 50 percent or more of this collateral damage can be avoided and in return, significantly reduce global carbon emissions from forest degradation. 

The Tropical Forest Foundation (TFF) is presently working in collaboration with Virginia Tech and the University of Florida to pursue additional carbon retention studies in an effort to further TFF’s broader mission: to promote sustainable forest management through RIL as the best way to preserve the renewable resources and natural habitats of tropical forests.