Managing forests as a renewable asset for present and future generations: Verifying legal compliance in forestry in Papua New Guinea

2013-01
Policy Report
Managing forests as a renewable asset for present and future generations: Verifying legal compliance in forestry in Papua New Guinea

This report aims to contribute to the management of PNG’s forests as a renewable natural asset for the collective benefit of all Papua New Guineans. It argues that to achieve these ends, illegalities in the forest sector need serious attention. The report aims to (i) provide a review of the illegal logging issue in PNG, (ii) identify the potential legality risks that are associated with unverified PNG timber, (iii) set out options for mitigating these risks, and (iv) provide an update on the development and uptake of legality and sustainability standards in PNG.

The potential legality risks of unverified PNG export timber identified in this and earlier reports are associated with failures to follow the required processes in the acquisition, allocation and extension of timber rights; shortcomings in compliance with regulations and guidelines in the conduct of forestry operations and in fulfilment of project agreements; and failure to follow the prescribed processes in the authorisation of SABLs, which are now a significant source of PNG export timber.

In terms of risk mitigation strategies, buyers should avoid clearly illegal and high risk timber, such as species banned from export and logs from unauthorised or suspended operations, as well as avoid relationships with timber businesses that have been prosecuted for serious illegal activities. Timber from Forest Clearance Authorities granted under SABLs should also be avoided (unless considerable proof of legal compliance can be provided) until the Government has concluded its investigation and put in place a comprehensive response to the problems identified.

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