Need for sustainability policy - a case study of the Natural Forest Conservation Program (NFCP) in the western region of Tianshan Mountain, China

A case study of the Natural Forest Conservation Program (NFCP) in the western region of Tianshan Mountain was undertaken between 2001 and 2003. Data on the geographic, climatic, ecological, and social economy background of the study area were collected. The impact of the NFCP on the forest, soil, water, and biodiversity in the study area were analyzed and evaluated.The results show that a complete logging ban in the study area cannot replace sustainable forest management; a more flexible policy should be adopted to resolve technical, social and economic problems associated with the complete and suddenly implemented logging ban. In order to strengthen the long-term sustainability of the NFCP, public awareness and funding support China should be increased.