Reconstructing the Japanese Forest Industry in the 21st Century

ABSTRACT

The largest factors in the devastation of the forest and timber industry have been the immaturity of resources due to the predominance of artificial forestation in the post war period, and the lack of a modern forest management system that would harmonize the efficiency of lumber production with the multiple functions of the forest.

In order to revitalize the forest and timber industry, clear cut logging practices must give way to selective logging methods, the forest owner's association must undergo a comprehensive reformation, and to oversee these initiatives, a modern forest management system must be established.

Recognizing that our present resources are predominantly made up of artificial forests that will not reach the maturity required for harvest in the near future, improvements in the logging industry for the time being cannot be implemented otherwise than through public funds. A modern forest management system would ensure that such expenditures for improvements in the logging industry would not merely be a social cost, but an investment for future value through the creation of a more sustainable industry and environment.