Dr. Jake Robinson, from the College of Science and Engineering at Flinders University, emphasizes the importance of integrating biodiversity into reforestation strategies. His new book, *Treewilding*, delves into the critical need to revive our connection with forests and restore ecosystems devastated by centuries of deforestation.
"Amidst the ongoing biodiversity crisis, pandemics, and climate change, it's crucial to prioritize the restoration of our precious ecosystems," says Dr. Robinson. "Reforestation efforts are an essential component of this globally."
The book discusses the deep-rooted connection humans have historically had with forests, a connection that has been largely lost in modern times. According to Dr. Robinson, effective reforestation is a complex process that begins with the soil and incorporates both ancient knowledge and modern science.
Forests, once covering 60% of the world's habitable land 10,000 years ago, now cover just 30%, with much of this area consisting of ecologically poor plantations. Dr. Robinson points out that the current approach to reforestation often prioritizes timber production over ecosystem health, resulting in forests that lack diversity, complexity, and resilience.
"We have an unprecedented opportunity to restore our relationship with forests. We now know that forests are as invisible as they are visible," Dr. Robinson notes. He explains that each tree hosts trillions of microbes that contribute to the forest's ecological functions, and that trees themselves possess senses and memory, possibly passing information to their offspring through epigenetics.
The book also features contributions from Australian First Nations historian Bruce Pascoe, who underscores the deep spiritual connection Indigenous peoples have with forests. Pascoe asserts that the world must urgently recognize the critical role trees play in our environment.
"Vast stretches of land we call 'forests' are merely shadows of what forest ecosystems should be," Dr. Robinson adds. "For instance, most plantation forests were designed with one goal in mind: to produce timber."
The book outlines several steps toward a more sustainable future, including planting native species in the right locations, fostering a connection to nature in children, involving communities in restoration efforts, and supporting Indigenous leadership in conservation.
*Treewilding - Our Past, Present, and Future Relationship with Forests* is available through Pelagic Publishing. Dr. Robinson will be presenting his work at various venues in Adelaide over the coming months.
Our Past, Present and Future Relationship with Forests (Pelagic Publishing)
Related Links
Flinders University
Forestry News - Global and Local News, Science and Application
| Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters |
| Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters |
