Implications of the National Forest Policy to the Sustainable Forest Management in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Sustainable forest management is one of the most important tools to manage the extraction from forests, ensure the ecological characteristics and the coverage of forests. Though the government has implemented several policies to manage the forests, the effectiveness of those has not been studied. Therefore this study mainly focused to analyze the impacts of National Forest Policy-1995 (NFP) to sustainable forest management in Sri Lanka. As the policy formulation and implementation are completely vested on higher authority of the forestry sector organizations, the study sample was mainly consisted of 40 executives of Ministry of Environment. Simple random sampling technique was used. Primary data were collected using a structured type pretested questionnaire. Data were analyzed with Descriptive and Inferential Statistics. Results revealed that majority (98% ) were positive about adaptation and implementation of sustainable forestry concept through the NFP. Among the various activities, it has been found that zoning and boundary demarcation were progressive. Results showed that actions taken to enhance the joint management, industrial plantations, incentive schemes and bottom up approach were not very much effective in forestry sector m aster plan (FSMP). Multi-disciplinary decision making and leasehold forestry concepts were not succeeded. Recognizing home gardens and agro-forestry systems as a supplier of wood has become successful (86% ). Majority (90% ), identified plantand seed distribution as popular incentive schemes. Lack of green accounting system was one of the major constraints identified. Results further emphasized that law enforcement should be regulated while enhancing awareness among the people. Animal corridors should be considered in boundary demarcation. Green accounting system should be implemented and financial incentives should be granted to develop home gardens. It is concluded that National Forest Policy implemented in 1995 has considerably contributed to the sustainable forest management.