What is a primary goal of forest conservation?

A primary goal of forest conservation is to restore natural habitats and preserve biodiversity. This focus is essential because healthy forests provide a vital ecosystem that supports a wide range of plant and animal species. Biodiversity within forest ecosystems contributes to their resilience, allowing them to withstand environmental changes and threats such as climate change, pests, and diseases. By maintaining and restoring habitats, forest conservation efforts help ensure that diverse species can thrive, fostering a balanced ecosystem that ultimately benefits the environment and society as a whole.

This goal contrasts with the focus on maximizing timber production, which may prioritize resource extraction over ecological health. Similarly, increasing urban sprawl can lead to habitat destruction and fragmentation, further threatening biodiversity. Enhancing recreational facilities, while beneficial for public enjoyment, does not address the fundamental need to protect and restore habitats for wildlife and plant species within forested areas. Each of these alternatives neglects the broader objective of maintaining healthy ecosystems that sustain life on Earth.