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Acoforag: "Government's New Model for the Forestry Sector Excludes More Profitable Options"

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The manager of the Association of Forestry Contractors A.G. (Acoforag), René Muñoz, argued that the new sustainable forestry model promoted by the Government, based on native species, would not allow landowners the freedom to choose species to balance economic profitability with transitioning to a more environmentally friendly model.

In an interview with La Tribuna newspaper, Muñoz agreed with the proposal for a new agroforestry and restoration model but stated: "What we criticize is the slowness with which the State is addressing forestry issues."

"Since 2012, there has been no law related to the forestry sector, making it unattractive for new investments or plantations due to the lack of subsidies," explained the leader.

In his view, "it is the State's duty to subsidize and promote afforestation and reforestation of eroded lands, as well as for all landowners who lost their forests due to wildfires."

FORESTRY SECURITY

"Reforestation should be left to the landowner's discretion. The freedom to choose forest species should prevail, but we don’t see that. They are forcing the use of native species," criticized the Acoforag A.G. manager.

Muñoz pointed out that "as landowners, one may have principles of conservation or environmental preservation, which is valid. What we see is a lack of alternatives, with the State focused solely on native species restoration." "A landowner’s actions cannot be restricted in their preferred terms," he emphasized.

The leader urged the Chilean State to "develop public policies that safeguard resources. It cannot rely on private entities, which currently handle 50% of wildfire control. We ask the State to ensure investigations are carried out and reach conclusions."

In this context, he lamented that "very few people are convicted for intentional fires. Investigations mention 2,000 suspects, yet only 4 are formally charged, with no clarity on who is serving sentences."

"The State must also address this, not just promote native or exotic plantations but also control the resource, as it is the primary owner and responsible for what is happening in the country today," detailed René Muñoz.

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS

Additionally, the head of Acoforag A.G. discussed whether the new forestry model meets the economic conditions to maintain the sector as a local and global exporter of raw materials.

"Choosing which species to plant depends on future goals. If we want to be a forestry nation, we must plant fast-growing species, as they become marketable in 20 to 25 years."

"Native species grow slower, taking 60 to 70 years to yield returns, so a balance must be struck," he explained.

"Economic, social, and environmental aspects must be harmonized," he added, outlining factors he believes should shape public policy for reforesting burned hectares this summer.

"This is the State’s task. Laws cannot be created against what is needed," reiterated René Muñoz in his analysis of the forestry policy announced by the Ministry of Agriculture.

The Acoforag A.G. manager noted that "35% of the country’s land is suitable for forestry, so we have an opportunity to seize. Currently, there are 2 million hectares of exotic plantations and 4 to 5 million hectares of native forests that could be commercialized—markets must be sought and can be found."

Despite this, the spokesperson observed that "conditions are needed for investors, landowners, and smallholders to make the required investments. Without State support and a subsidizing law, it won’t happen."

Source:www.latribuna.cl