TO THE PROBLEM OF DEFINING THE CONCEPT OF “FORESTRY”

Abstract

It is noted that a forest is a natural (or artificially created) ecosystem, the
main components of which are woody vegetation, shrubs, grass cover, soils, plant
etc. It is formed as a result of long-term natural development or human
economic activity. The key functions of the forest are: 1) ecological, since they
ensure the absorption of carbon dioxide, participate in the regulation of the water
balance, as well as the preservation of biodiversity; 2) provide the cycle of
substances necessary for the existence of humanity; 3) perform a cultural
function. Therefore, forests are not just a resource, but a living ecosystem that
ensures the ecological balance of the planet. It is proven that forestry is a socially
important and necessary sphere of activity, which includes a systematic set of
scientifically substantiated legal, organizational, managerial, environmental,
financial and material and technical actions and measures aimed at implementing
following functions: a) ecological, - climate regulation, soil protection,
biodiversity preservation); b) economic, - obtaining wood, non-timber products;
social, - recreation, cultural value, supporting the vital activities of
communities, etc. And therefore, it represents not just the cultivation and
harvesting of forests, but also a comprehensive system of forest management as
living natural resources, which are of strategic importance for ecological stability,
social and economic well-being of society.
It has been established that in Ukraine, as in many countries of the world,
forests are under threat due to illegal logging, climate change, fires, the spread of
pests, etc. This, in turn, requires the formation and implementation of an effective
state policy in the field of forest use, which would combine economic feasibility,
environmental sustainability and legal responsibility. Achieving the goals of the
relevant policy is considered possible by implementing balanced and effective
state supervision and control over forestry management.