Investing in natural capital – weaving native forest back through New Zealand’s landscapes

Authors: Jacqui Aimers
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2024, Issue N.Z.J.For. 68(4) 2024, pp Pages 13 - 17, Feb 2024
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Prior to human arrival, New Zealand was almost entirely forested below the treeline. The current forested area represents over a 70% reduction from the pre-human state circa 800 years ago. This large-scale deforestation has been disastrous for our soils, water quality and biodiversity. However, there is now increased awareness of the importance (and vulnerability) of New Zealand’s natural capital, and ecosystem services have become important in planning and policy matters. Our native forests provide a myriad of environmental and cultural services, plus (potentially) timber and non-timber products. Unfortunately, we are often not fully aware of many of these ecosystem services until they are damaged or destroyed. There has been an imbalance in land-use decision-making between those who benefit from short-term economic gains and those suffering the long-term impacts from deforestation. The risk of environmental damage needs to be factored into land-use decisions and economic equations. Unfortunately, the native forest historically destroyed in the highly erodible steeplands of the North Island’s east coast was once regarded as worthless by many. In hindsight, it would likely have contributed billions of dollars in ecosystem services, including land stabilisation and protection of downstream communities, infrastructures, local economies, food production and natural ecosystems. Further, it would have reduced the loss and trauma experienced by thousands of people impacted by recent extreme weather events. We must urgently develop models to incentivise native afforestation, and the protection and management of existing native forest – and reward landowners for the provision of ecosystem services for the benefit of all. But how do we value and incentivise these vital ecosystem services?

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