Monitoring of Logging Activities by Satellite Remote Sensing - A Contribution to the EU FLEGT Action

In 2003 the EU has launched the EU FLEGT action plan, aiming to combat the logging, trade and import of illegal timber. The action plan comprises various measures, (i) supporting improved governance in timber producing countries, (ii) establishing voluntary partnerships between the EU and producer countries and (iii) reducing consumption and investment that encourage illegal logging. Earth Observation by satellites can help to increase transparency in forestry in timber-producing countries, providing a basis for the monitoring of logging activities and for deriving indicators on forest cover. Forest cover conversion, canopy opening and the extent of logging roads are basic parameters that can be extracted. In combination with spatial information for example on concession and protected area boundaries, on the terrain, but also on legal thresholds for the size of clear cuts some first conclusions may be derived related to legality and sustainability of forest management practices.

STIBIG Hans-Jurgen;  BUCHA Tomas; 

2006-11-15

National Forest Centre-Forest Research Institute Zvolen

JRC31146