Crying Forests: Political Ecology in the DPRK

The book aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of social, economic, and political issues behind the severe deforestation in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, highlighting its relevance as an international political issue. It offers a unique case study for developing nations facing similar challenges and provides insights into the complex factors contributing to declining forest coverage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 188 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This book aims to provide a comprehensive analysis on social, economic, and political issues to understand why forests in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) have been so severely deforested. Deforestation and forest degradation issues in the DPRK have been highlighted as an important international political issue, which has been intervening with food security issues and energy issues, and it is hard to discover the way out. The DPRK provides a unique case to the international community that illustrates why the forest issue is so complex, illuminating the issues of declining forest coverage that beset developing nations around the world. This book will interest political scientists, conservation ecologists, and journalists.

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has faced significant challenges in managing its forests, leading to severe deforestation and degradation. The country's forests cover only about 2.5% of its land area, significantly lower than the global average of 31%. The main causes of deforestation in the DPRK include economic development, population growth, and agricultural expansion.

Economic Development: The DPRK has prioritized economic development over environmental conservation in recent years. The country has focused on industrialization and urbanization, which have led to increased demand for timber and other forest products. This has resulted in the illegal logging and harvesting of forests, as well as the clearing of land for agriculture and infrastructure development.

Population Growth: The DPRK's population has grown rapidly in recent decades, from about 20 million in 1950 to over 25 million today. This growth has put pressure on the country's resources, including forests, as people seek food, housing, and other basic needs. The increased demand for timber and other forest products has led to further deforestation.

Agricultural Expansion: Agriculture is the main economic activity in the DPRK, and the country has been promoting intensive farming practices to increase food production. This has led to the conversion of forested land into agricultural fields, as well as the use of heavy machinery and pesticides that can damage the soil and harm wildlife.

Lack of Environmental Awareness: The DPRK has historically lacked environmental awareness and education. Many people in the country do not understand the importance of forests and the impact of deforestation on the environment and society. This has contributed to the lack of enforcement of environmental laws and regulations, and the continued degradation of forests.

Climate Change: Climate change is also a significant factor contributing to deforestation in the DPRK. The country is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including droughts, floods, and sea-level rise. Forests play a critical role in mitigating these effects by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, but deforestation reduces the capacity of forests to do so.

To address the issue of deforestation in the DPRK, the government has implemented several measures in recent years. These include the establishment of protected areas, the promotion of sustainable forestry practices, and the enforcement of environmental laws and regulations. However, the challenges of deforestation in the DPRK are complex and require a comprehensive and long-term approach.

One of the key challenges is to promote sustainable forestry practices that balance economic development with environmental conservation. This includes the implementation of reforestation programs, the promotion of alternative livelihoods for rural communities, and the development of sustainable timber industries.

Another challenge is to increase environmental awareness and education in the DPRK. This can be achieved through public campaigns, educational programs, and the training of local communities in sustainable forestry practices.

Finally, it is important to address the underlying economic and social factors that contribute to deforestation in the DPRK. This includes improving access to education and healthcare, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development practices.

In conclusion, deforestation and forest degradation issues in the DPRK are significant international political issues that have significant impacts on food security, energy, and the environment. The country's forests cover only about 2.5% of its land area, significantly lower than the global average of 31%. The main causes of deforestation include economic development, population growth, and agricultural expansion. To address the issue, the government has implemented several measures, but the challenges are complex and require a comprehensive and long-term approach. Promoting sustainable forestry practices, increasing environmental awareness and education, and addressing the underlying economic and social factors are critical to reversing the decline of forests in the DPRK and preserving the country's natural resources for future generations.

Weight: 278g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811697272
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022