Ecology-and-environment / Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystems / Main Functions of Forests
Main Functions of Forests
- Productive functions: Production of various types of wood, fruits and a wide range of compounds such as resins, alkaloids, essential oil, latex and pharmaceutical substances.
- Protective functions: Provides habitats for various organisms conservation of soil and water, prevention of drought, shelter against wind, cold, radiation, noise, sounds, smells and sights.
- Regulative functions: Absorption, storage and release of gases (most importantly carbon dioxide and oxygen), water, minerals, elements and radiant energy.
- All such functions improve the atmospheric and temperature conditions and enhance the economic and environmental value of the land. Forests also effectively regulate floods and drought and all the biogeochemical cycles.
