Unit 4 - Global Impacts

Historically, forests were only seen for the value they had as timber. In many countries, like Canada, forests are now also seen as valuable as a carbon sink, places for people to go and animals to live. In fact, the country of Bhutan has provided an example of where countries are no longer measured globally on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) performance, but on their happiness. Gross National Happiness (GNH) is a measure of the spiritual, physical, social, and environmental health of its citizens and natural environment. This approach, which the UN has adopted, encourages countries to consider a more holistic approach to development and what is considered a healthy economy.

Forests everywhere are undergoing transformations due to climate change. Canada is working hard to ensure that forests are sustainable, and biodiversity is maintained by using traditional and new knowledge, and making conservation and sustainability a priority. Canada continues to improve its sustainability and conservation efforts, and while our forests may look different in the future, they will remain an integral part of our landscape and culture.