Moving towards the ecological intensification of tree plantations
Authors/Creators
- 1. University of Cadiz
- 2. EBD-CSIC
- 3. Universidad de Sevilla
- 4. Rey Juan Carlos University
- 5. University of Évora
- 6. Universidad Austral de Chile
- 7. Universidad de La Frontera
Description
The growing timber demand and the boom of massive tree-planting programs could mean the spreading of mismanaged tree plantations worldwide. Here, we apply the concept of ecological intensification to forestry systems as a viable biodiversity-focused strategy that could be critical to develop productive, yet sustainable tree plantations. Tree plantations can be highly productive if tree species are properly combined to complement their ecological functions. Simultaneously considering soil biodiversity and animal-mediated biocontrol will be critical to minimize the reliance on external inputs. Integrating genetic, functional and demographic diversity across heterogeneous landscapes should improve resilience under climate change. Designing ecologically intensified plantations will mean breaking the timber productivity vs. conservation dichotomy and assuring the maintenance of key ecosystem services at safe levels.
Files
PLANTS-D-21-00265_R1.pdf
Files
(2.5 MB)
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