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This article provides an overview of concepts, models, measures, and dimensions of
forest sustainability assessments. The methods described include models that are
fully developed and have actually been applied to various application contexts, as well
as two normative models, graph theory and cognitive mapping, that appear to have
potential for more in-depth analysis of the interactions of sustainability indicators. The
former is based on the principles of multi-criteria analysis (MCA), an approach that is
capable of accommodating the amount of complexity and uncertainty inherent in the
concept and practice of forest sustainability. The other methods make use of “softer”
analysis that are suited particularly for the assessment and measurement of qualitative
indicators of sustainability. The MCA models are capable of determining relative
importance of indicators and estimating sustainability index values cased on the
combined impacts of indicators. Measures of relative importance can be used to
prioritise indicators or filter out those that are relatively unimportant. ‘Softer’ analysis
methods such as cognitive mapping and graph theory can help examine the
interactions between and among indicators and help identify critical domains, critical
paths, and tactically and strategically important indicators, based on the strength of
their connectivity with other indicators, either directly or indirectly. These measures of
connectivity can provide useful insights that can help managers identify indicators in
need of attention, monitoring or even mitigation when necessary. Concepts such as the
use of sustainability thresholds and qualitative flags also discussed.