Economics and ethics: approaches to sustainable forest management

Authors: S.D. Richardson
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1994, Issue N.Z.J.For. 39(1) 1994, pp 17-20, May 1994
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Anomalies of neo-classical economics which stem from market imperfections and the fact that ordinary people do not behave like economists, increasingly affect the ways in which problems of environment and development (and, in particular, sustainable forest management) may be addressed. The need for new approaches to escape the constraints of short-term time horizons has led to the development of "Safe Minimum Standards" analysis, the new field of "ecological economics", sustainable development paradigms (e.g. Jacobs) and the holistic approach which views ecology, economics and ethics as part of a whole - an inter-connectcd circle - which at the present time appears to be broken. The inclusion of an ethical dimension, even if only humanistic, may be important. This paper examines some implications for sustainable forest management with particular reference to land tenure and the nature of the political economy ("command or guidance"). Recent developments in China are outlined and the conclusion offered that the political, economic, and ethical setting in which sustainability is pursued will determine success or otherwise.

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