As the potential global impact of forest destruction and degradation becomes better understood, the link between poverty and deforestation in developing countries is of increasing concern. In this clear, focused book, eminent members of the worldwide forestry community, under the auspices of the United Nations Development Programme, explore the biological, social, and economic causes of tropical deforestation and offer remedies appropriate to the biology and culture of diverse regions and localities. Modern forestry techniques, the contributors show, make it possible to alleviate poverty through sustainable forest management and conservation. But, this can happen only if we understand and effectively manage each factor that significantly affects forests and local populations.
The authors look at the relationships between forests and poverty; examine successes and failures in agroforestry, the development and maintenance of national parks, and commercialization; and assess the impact on forests of rural poor families, land ownership, and property rights. The authors also describe the importance of cooperation and partnerships at local, regional, and national levels in the creation of forest strategies, and they urge nations to use a locally based approach appropriate to the biology and culture of the specific geographic location.
Ralph Schmidt is director of the Natural Resources Management Unit, Sustainable Energy and Environment Division, United Nations Development Programme. Joyce K. Berry is director of the Environment and Natural Resources Policy Institute, Colorado State University. John C. Gordon is dean and Pinchot Professor at the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Yale University.
"This book should prove an invaluable tool to anyone in the development community, particularly those setting off for their first project."
– Donna Dekker-Robertson, The Quarterly Review of Biology
"There is much basic information for advancing sustainable human development via forestry in developing countries in this book [...] Highly useful for educators in the fields of economic and human development, international forestry, and those interested in world poverty alleviation; volunteers in help programs such as the Peace Corps will also benefit by it [...] All levels."
– Choice
"Environmentalists as well as students of development studies will find the book and interesting starting point to the field of forestry management."
– Beverly L. Peters, South African Journal of International Affairs