Trees and Paper – Part 2: An Overview of Environmental Considerations
Step 4 - Post Harvesting
- Harvest blocks are audited by companies and regulators to check for oil, waste, and soil rutting. Any issues identified are repaired based on local regulations and standards.
- Over the next few years the sites are surveyed to determine the need for replanting. In certain areas, natural regeneration may be adequate to re-establish a healthy forest.
Documentation is Key!
- Many of the operations and rules outlined above are well documented in written policies and procedures which are a key part of any ISO 14001 environmental management system.
- Harvesting contractors and foresters follow a “Green Book” and posters outlining policies and procedures for emergencies, waste disposal, equipment requirements, training requirements, instructions to follow near watercourse crossings, forest and logging road location and maintenance, buffers required around sensitive habitats.
- The contractor work order includes detailed instructions to follow in the field.
- Categories:
- Business Management - Sustainability
Phil has over 28 years of international experience related to sustainability and the forest products industry. He currently leads Two Sides North America, a non-profit that promotes the unique sustainable features of print and paper, as well as their responsible production and use. Two Sides operates globally in five continents with members that span the entire graphic communication value chain. Phil has written extensively on sustainability and environmental topics related to the forest products sector. He received his Bachelor and Master's of Science degrees from McGill University in Montreal. He is a private forest owner and sustainably manages over 200 acres of forestland for both recreational and economic benefits.
