Multifuntzionaltasuna eta baso-eredu produkti-bistaren krisia. Funtzio ekologikoak Bizkaiko baso-politikan

Abstract

Management based on multifunctionality regards forests as complex ecosystems able to provide an array of products and services to society. In this new perspective ecolo-gical and recreational functions, as well as productive ones, are taken into consideration. As environmental and recreational measures must now enter the agenda of decision makers, present-day forest policy is facing new challenges.    Using ecological economics and institutionalism as methodological approach, the aim of this article is to analyze the situation of the forest sector in Biscay and to assess the importance of ecological functions in the forest policy. The following conclusions can be drawn from the research: (i) property structure is determining the forest model in Biscay; (ii) since implementation of multifunctionality can not be carried out resorting to market mechanisms, Administration´s intervention is regarded as necessary; and (iii) forest policy, irrespective of the field of application,  keeps giving priority to the productive function.