Nature's Resurgence: Reimagining Society's Perception of Forest Resources Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic (A Case Study of Türkiye)
Öz
Aim of study: To investigate how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced society’s perception and utilization of forests and forest resources in Bartın province, Türkiye.
Area of study: Bartın province, located in northern Türkiye, characterized by significant forest coverage.
Material and method: A questionnaire survey was administered to 400 participants, focusing on forest visitation habits, consumption of non-wood forest products, and forestry-related activities during the pandemic.
Main results: The pandemic led to:
o Increased public desire to visit forest parks,
o Heightened demand for non-wood forest products (especially herbal teas),
o Decreased participation in forestry-related work traditionally supporting household income.
Research highlights: Forests emerged as vital refuges providing both physical and psychological benefits during crises. Findings emphasize the necessity of proactive forest management and policies that recognize forests’ ecological, social, and health functions beyond economic value.
Anahtar Kelimeler
COVID-19, Forest Resources, Recreation, Türkiye
Destekleyen Kurum
TÜBİTAK
Proje Numarası
1919B012104176
Teşekkür
This study was supported by TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey) with project number 1919B012104176 as part of the 2209–A Project. Therefore, we are indebted to TÜBİTAK for their contributions and support.
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