Protecting biodiversity

The beverage carton industry recognises that respecting and upholding forest biodiversity is critical, both for the survival of the forest and the industry. This means supporting the protection of fauna and flora, as well as having strict traceability criteria for the supply of wood used in beverage cartons.

Sustainable forest management principles are based on local experience, legal requirements and standards set by forest certification schemes, such as FSC and PEFC. They also respond to the specific habitat and species protection requirements laid down in EU and national legislation.

‘Site-adapted forestry’ is one of the most effective ways to implement these principles on the ground. It involves mapping of sensitive habitats and places responsibility for habitat regeneration plans on those who harvest the forests.

Measures used by foresters to protect biodiversity include:

• leaving both living and dead trees
• leaving forest set-asides
• maintaining a mixture of tree species
• planning logging routes in advance
• fire management (where appropriate)
• developing regeneration plans for renewing natural habitats once harvesting takes place
• using biodegradable oils wherever possible in cutting and other machinery
• no GMO use
• leaving buffer zones around water courses
• using GPS to help manage planning and ‘site-adapted forestry’ techniques with far greater precision

The forest owners also ensure that the forests remain a source of pleasure and enjoyment for local communities.

For more information about ACE’s work to protect and enhance biodiversity, including projects with the RSPB, Birdlife International and Earthwatch, click here.