Forest ethics: the role of ethical dialogue in the fate of the forests

The role of forest ethics in international policy processes

Natural forests, particularly tropical rainforests cannot compete, in terms of revenue generated per unit area, with land use alternatives (such as cattle, soybean or palm oil). Yet continued conversion of natural forests to other land uses may have catastrophic consequences for global human well being. This paper argues that changes are required to the values that underpin global development if we are to avert these consequences.

The author argues that ethical dialogue towards a collective global forest ethic is required in order to take forward the stalled international policy process on forest protection. Prospects for a Global Forest Convention are explored and four hypotheses are advanced as to why most existing policy processes have been flawed:

there is a mismatch between the ethical driving forces affecting forests (e.g. maximising individual wealth) and proposed solutions which appeal to broader notions of human well being
adequate and balanced representation from those suffering the consequences of forest loss rarely matches the power of those perpetrating it
individual or sovereign self-interests impede any attempt to develop a higher collective vision to the benefit of all
short term restrictions of behaviour are preferred to long term changes in behaviour brought about by reorientation of education

The paper concludes with preliminary considerations regarding the process of ethical dialogue that might unveil a cosmopolitan ethic concerning the appreciation, use, monitoring and arbitration surrounding natural forests.

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Forest ethics: the role of ethical dialogue in the fate of the forests