To have accurate figures, the surface of the evergreen rainforests alone should be compared with logging quotas. The FAO, in its calculations, seems to have been quite generous. Criteria for the sustainable use of wood from tropical rainforests are highly controversial. In contrast to commercial timber companies, these local people have an interest in maintaining their forests. According to a report published in 1990 by ITTO, less than 1 percent of the tropical wood sold throughout the world comes from forests which are truly sustainably used and managed.
Plantations are monocultures and have nothing in common with the diversity of the rainforest.
In addition, plantations are susceptible to insects and must be regularly sprayed with pesticides. Exotic trees such as eucalyptus, teak or Caribbean spruce are often planted. In many cases, new markets are created for plantation wood where previously there were none. This only encourages additional use of tropical wood and does not save a single tree in a natural forest. Any discussion about the tropical forests should begin by looking at . . .