The studies demonstrated that FSC-certified low-intensity logging could help preserve wildlife species in tropical forests. These concessions could even complement protected areas to provide extensive habitat for a wide range of Amazonian species.

However, WWF concluded that more scientific research and long-term biodiversity monitoring are needed to show the impact of FSC certification as the results in Peru may not necessarily apply elsewhere. Additional studies should therefore include different ecosystems and regions, as well as different forest management strategies to see where and how FSC certification can be most effective in preserving biodiversity.

WWF called for FSC to collect and report data on biodiversity systematically – through audit information – and to establish strategic collaborations with research institutions to help facilitate data collection. FSC is already studying how to collect and report data consistently to facilitate our understanding of socio-economic and environmental outcomes of certification. We are also open to develop strategic collaborations with different research organizations and are currently preparing a strategic research agenda.

To learn more about the species the research teams observed and see what FSC-certified forests look like in the Peruvian Amazon, please visit http://peruamazon.panda.org/ - the website WWF has created to illustrate the results of these studies. It includes an explanation of the research and the different species that can be found from the canopy down to the ground of the jungle, illustrated through sound clips and videos of various species.

You can also read WWF’s full report on the results of the studies on their website.