Sustainable investment in non-timber forest products in Algeria: Balancing economic development with environmental conservation

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the role of non-timber forest products (NTFPs), particularly cork, in achieving sustainable development in Algeria. It aims to assess their economic value, explore mechanisms for their valorization, and analyze the extent to which investment in these resources can contribute to balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. Method: The research adopts a mixed analytical approach combining descriptive economic analysis and quantitative methods. It relies on national statistical data (2015–2024), reports from the Algerian Forestry Directorate and FAO, and applies the Pearson correlation coefficient to examine the relationship between cork production and economic, social, and environmental indicators of sustainable development. Findings: The findings reveal that NTFPs remain significantly underutilized despite their high potential, with exploitation rates not exceeding 40% in most cases. Cork emerges as the most valuable resource, showing a strong positive correlation with economic growth (r≈0.82), employment generation, and rural income improvement, as well as a positive relationship with environmental sustainability due to its renewable nature. However, the sector faces major constraints, including weak investment, limited industrial processing, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental risks such as climate change and forest fires. Conclusion/Contribution: The study concludes that investing in NTFPs—especially cork—offers a strategic pathway toward sustainable development by integrating economic, social, and environmental dimensions. It contributes to the field by providing empirical evidence on the role of forest-based resources in green economic transformation and by highlighting the need for policy reforms, value-chain development, and increased investment to unlock the sector’s full potential in Algeria.