International Tropical Timber Agreement 2011
The International Tropical Timber Agreement 2011: A Comprehensive Look
The International Tropical Timber Agreement 2011 is a legally binding agreement that aims to promote the sustainable management of tropical forests and the trade of tropical timber. The agreement was put in place by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), a intergovernmental organization that works to promote the conservation and sustainable management of tropical forests. Let`s take a closer look at this important agreement and what it means for the world`s tropical forests.
Background
Tropical forests are vital to the health of the planet. They cover just 7% of the earth`s land area, yet they support over half of the world`s plant and animal species. Tropical forests also play a crucial role in regulating the planet`s climate, storing carbon dioxide, and producing oxygen.
Despite their importance, tropical forests are under threat. Deforestation, illegal logging, and unsustainable forestry practices are all major contributors to the destruction of tropical forests. This has devastating effects on the environment, wildlife, and the people who rely on the forests for their livelihoods.
The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) was established in 1983 to address these issues. And in 1994, the first International Tropical Timber Agreement was put in place. The agreement aimed to promote the sustainable management and conservation of tropical forests, and to regulate the trade of tropical timber. It was successful in many ways, but it was also felt that some of its provisions needed to be updated and strengthened.
In 2011, the ITTO member countries agreed on a new International Tropical Timber Agreement. This agreement, which came into force in 2017, builds on the previous agreement and includes important new provisions.
Key provisions of the Agreement
The International Tropical Timber Agreement 2011 has several key provisions that aim to promote sustainable forest management and the trade of tropical timber.
1. Sustainable forest management
One of the key provisions of the agreement is the promotion of sustainable forest management practices. This means that forests must be managed in a way that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It also means that forestry practices should be environmentally sound, socially beneficial, and economically viable.
2. Legality verification
Another important provision of the agreement is the requirement for countries to ensure that the timber they produce and export is legally harvested. This means that countries must have systems in place to verify the legality of their timber, and they must prohibit the harvest and trade of illegally harvested timber.
3. Trade
The agreement also aims to improve the trade of tropical timber. This means promoting fair and transparent trade practices, and reducing barriers to trade. It also means promoting the use of certified timber, which is harvested and traded in a sustainable way.
4. Support for producer countries
Finally, the agreement requires developed countries to provide financial and technical support to producer countries to help them implement sustainable forest management practices. This support can take the form of grants, loans, or other types of assistance.
Conclusion
The International Tropical Timber Agreement 2011 is an important step towards promoting the sustainable management of tropical forests and the trade of tropical timber. By requiring countries to promote sustainable forest management practices, ensure the legality of their timber, promote fair and transparent trade practices, and provide support for producer countries, the agreement aims to protect the environment, promote economic growth, and improve the lives of people who depend on tropical forests.
As global citizens, we all have a role to play in protecting our planet`s tropical forests. By supporting the International Tropical Timber Agreement 2011 and promoting sustainable forestry practices, we can help ensure that these important ecosystems continue to thrive for generations to come.