Understory Economy

Background

The concept of the understory economy refers to the management of non-timber forest products harvested beneath the forest canopy. Its purpose is to allow farmers engaged in long-term forestry to obtain short-term harvests and additional income sources. In addition to primary products such as bamboo and timber, farmers may utilize the forest environment to cultivate non-timber products on a small scale within sustainable limits. However, these practices must comply with the principles of sustainable forest management to ensure a close symbiotic relationship between farmers and forests, thereby achieving balance across environmental, economic, and social dimensions in pursuit of sustainable forestry.

Management Principles

• Maintain the forest’s original ecological functions
• Prohibit the use of herbicides and pesticides
• Avoid chemical fertilizers
• Preserve forest vegetation