A review of forest recreation and human health in plantation forests.

Abstract

The importance of forests, including plantations, for outdoor recreation and human health is being increasingly emphasized in numerous policy and research documents all over Europe. This paper gives a brief overview of, for example, how urban forests (and afforestation in general) can contribute to the health and well-being of the general population. In addition, the paper explores the role of forests in outdoor education and learning, and presents some ideas for the resolution of access problems. Some of the future challenges for forest planning and management are outlined. It is foreseen that more collaboration with other policy sectors is needed, and it is stressed that the many opportunities for physical exercise in (urban) forested landscapes should not be forgotten in today’s political context.