Protection of old-growth forests is justified

Protecting old-growth forests is crucial because they harbor unique species that are threatened by logging, according to Seppo Vuokko, a reader contributing to Helsingin Sanomat. Vuokko counters the idea that old forests are dying, explaining they naturally regenerate through disturbances. This process allows the forest landscape to evolve into a state to which its species have adapted over evolutionary history, forming the basis for biodiversity.

The ideal scenario, Vuokko argues, is not just protecting old forests but safeguarding natural forests that change under natural processes. Research indicates that these natural forest landscapes encompass diverse developmental stages, with old forests being the most prevalent. However, in modern Finland, old forests represent a marginal proportion, especially in southern regions. Protection efforts aim to rectify this imbalance as forests return to a natural state, a process that takes decades to centuries.

Vuokko addresses the argument that only deadwood species are abundant in old forests. He points out that deadwood species constitute 20-25% of Finland's forest species and are significantly represented in endangered species assessments, highlighting their importance. Furthermore, epiphytic lichens, mosses, and birds are most diverse in old forests, as shown in numerous North European studies. The value of habitat diversity is primarily built on the uniqueness of the living species communities, not just the number of species. Therefore, protecting old-growth forests with their specialized species communities significantly contributes to maintaining overall biodiversity.

Vuokko also refutes the claim that forest species depend solely on plants. While plants, particularly trees, play a central role, they rely on decomposers that maintain nutrient cycles and mycorrhizal fungi, which enable nutrient uptake. The interdependencies between species are extensive; without fungi, boreal forests would barely exist. Vuokko concludes that the forest ecosystem is an integrated whole, and no single part can be deemed more important than others.

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The forest ecosystem is an entity, and one part cannot be elevated above others in importance.