Sustainable forestry management is defined as the stewardship and use of forests and forest land in a way and at a rate, that maintains their biodiversity, productivity, regeneration capacity, vitality and their potential to fulfill now and in the future, relevant ecological, economic and social functions, at local, national and global levels and does not cause damage to other ecosystems. Sustainably managed forests are a renewable source of raw materials, but the forests also provide services such as clean air and water, wildlife habitat, and sometimes recreational opportunities. All forests can be managed sustainably, from primary or natural woodlands to intensively managed plantations.
Forestry certification is a mechanism using third party certification bodies to provide assurance that a forest is managed according to internationally recognized sustainability criteria, attesting to responsible management of forests and plantations.
A well-managed forest or plantation is one in which forestry is ecologically, socially and economically sustainable. A sustainable tree plantation conserves native ecosystems, enhances local welfare and is financially profitable. Planted forests allow the demand for wood to be met while using less land than would otherwise be the case.