Abstract Forests have fostered human progress for 10 millennia. They cover less than a third of earth s terrestrial surface, but account for most its terrestrial carbon. Yet, each year sets new precedents in forest use and global demand for wood.
Demand transcends political boundaries and permeates all levels of society.
Relatively small gains in both the area and productivity of planted forests could meet mounting wood demand while protecting natural forest values. Plantations have clear advantages in wood production. Less-known are their advantages in land restoration and their contribution to carbon sequestration. However, management practices must be sustainable. Pulse impacts during harvesting and site preparation may have profound impacts on sustainable productivity through their influence on soil processes.