ABSTRACT
Natural resources are an inseparable part of human history, in particular forest resources, which continue to play a major role in national prosperity. For example in Canada, forests are a key contributor to society, particularly for First Nations and many forest-dependent communities. As we undergo a period of massive change in terms of product markets, availability of fossil fuel and other nonrenewable resources, and the ability of the natural environment to absorb the emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, it is important to once again look to the forests to provide innovative, renewable sources of materials and energy that can be a fundamental strength of the modern bioeconomy.
