FAISALABAD, Dec 17: Replantation with fast-growing trees is a must for sustainable forestry and rehabilitation of Asian ecosystem.

Dr Suree Bhumibhamon of the Kasetsart University of Bangkok made this observation during the third session of the six-day International Seminar on Afforestation and Sustainable Forest Management at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) on Tuesday.

Touching upon community forestry in Asia, Dr Suree said that a centre for these activities was now an international autonomous training institution closely affiliated with the Kasetsart University.

About bio-diversity, Dr Suree said genetic variations among species had economic, scientific and social value. Genetic variation constitutes a buffer against change in the environment and provides building blocks for selection and breeding to adapt plants and animals to a range of environments. Community forests could be managed to maintain genetic variability of the target species, he added.

He further said that experiences in Asia had highlighted the positive aspect of the participatory approach, but the success might vary from country to country.—APP