Volume: 2, 2023
2nd International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: E007
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL2.E007
Published online: 19 April 2023
ICDSUPL, 2, E007 (2023)
Management methods of logging residues from forest management
Wiktor Bojarski1*, Wojciech Czekała1, Mateusz Nowak1
1 Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 50, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
* Corresponding author: wiktor.bojarski@up.poznan.pl
Abstract
The forest cover 29.6% of Poland and still growing. This is related to properly conducted forest management. Thanks to it, Poland is at the forefront of global producers of this natural raw material. As a result of wood harvesting, logging residues are also produced. These are unharvested tree parts such as branches, tree tops and rootwood. According to the literature, the production of logging residues is estimated at 45 Mg per 1 ha. Despite the high production of this material, in most cases it is left on the surface where logging was carried out. This is due to the fact that logging residues are a source of organic matter and biogenic elements. They are released into the soil as a result of natural decomposition and thus constitute a reservoir of nutrients for the developing new generation of forest. Because of the large amount of logging residues, it is possible to use part of the raw material for purposes other than leaving it on the forest area. Due to of the progressing climate change and economic aspects, some of this material is used as energy wood. Logging residues, because of the content of valuable nutrients for plants, can also be used for the production of organic fertilizer. It is talking about compost, which production and use in forest nurseries would reduce the costs associated with the purchase of fertilizers and soil improvers. The aim of the study was to indicate the methods and possibilities of logging residues management. In addition, their impact on the economy was identified, and thus the untapped potential of logging residues was identified. As part of the study, a review of literature referring to the discussed subject was carried out. Among the methods used to manage logging residues, the most rational solution turned out to be the production of organic fertilizer in the form of compost. This solution, in addition to numerous environmental and economic benefits, is also part of the circular economy. Regardless of the method of logging residues management, some of this material still should be left at the place of harvesting. The fertilizing properties of logging residues are important for the development of the next generation of forest, which follows from the protection of the soil against sterilization.
How to cite
W. Bojarski, W. Czekała, M. Nowak, 2023. Management methods of logging residues from forest management. In: 2nd International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL2.E007