This book is a compilation of the results of strategic policy research carried out by the Forest Conservation Project of the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES), between 1998 and 2002. The project's main purpose is to shed light on measures to conserve biodiversity and use forests sustainably, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Project work was conducted by academics, non-governmental organizations, and governmental officials in selected countries in the region and covered everything from the local reality at the village level, to forest policy at the national and global levels. Based on a structural analysis of issues concerning forest loss and degradation, the project focused on the participation of local people in sustainable forest management. The book: -presents a framework for sustainable forest management in the Asia-Pacific region. -analyzes forest policy and legislation in terms of local participation. -sheds light on the local reality in forest use and management. -proposes methodologies and concepts for sustainable forest management through local participation. Audience: The book offers a helpful framework for forest conservation, as well as key concepts and measures that will be useful for policy makers, non-governmental organizations, and academics alike.

This study presents proposals to curb forest degradation and improve community-based forest management initiatives. The authors identify obstacles to successful practices in Asia and the Pacific region and recommend ways of overcoming them.