Managing forests as complex adaptive systems: an issue of theory and method

Abstract

Classical forest management has worked out a series of forest regulation methods with the aim of obtaining the “fully regulated” forest. Considering the forest as a complex biological adaptive system means overcoming the reductionist and mechanist paradigm, and entails a shift towards a systemic approach in silviculture and forest management. The aim of this work is to discuss the objectives and theoretical assumptions of classical forest management methods in the light of the new systemic paradigm. I conclude that managing forests as complex adaptive systems and sustaining their ability to adapt to future changes is possible only if there is also a change in forest management methods so that they are consistent with the new theoretical approach.