This criterion is concerned with two of the fundamental components of a forest ecosystem: soil and water. Forests are important for soil conservation because they contribute directly to soil production and maintenance, and prevent or reduce soil erosion. Forested catchments also provide and protect high-quality water supplies for a range of uses.
Use the links below to access data and information reported for the five indicators of Criterion 4:
Indicator 4.1a Area of forest land managed primarily for protective functions - planned to be updated in mid 2024, see Australia's State of the Forests Report 2018 for current data.
Indicator 4.1b Management of the risk of soil erosion in forests - planned to be updated in late 2024, see Australia's State of the Forests Report 2018 for current data.
Indicator 4.1c Management of the risks to soil physical properties in forests - planned to be updated in late 2024, see Australia's State of the Forests Report 2018 for current data.
Indicator 4.1d Management of the risks to water quantity from forests - planned to be updated in late 2024, see Australia's State of the Forests Report 2018 for current data.
Indicator 4.1e Management of the risks to water quality in forests - planned to be updated in late 2024, see Australia's State of the Forests Report 2018 for current data.