Tropical forests are an undervalued asset in meeting the greatest global challenges of our time—averting climate change and promoting development. Despite their importance, tropical forests and their ecosystems are being destroyed at a high and even increasing rate in most forest-rich countries. The good news is that the science, economics, and politics are aligned to support a major international effort over the next five years to reverse tropical deforestation. Why Forests? Why Now? synthesizes the latest evidence on the importance of tropical forests in a way that is accessible to anyone interested in climate change and development and to readers already familiar with the problem of deforestation. It makes the case to decisionmakers in rich countries that rewarding developing countries for protecting their forests is urgent, affordable, and achievable.

This new edition has been completely revised to provide up-to-date accounts of silvicultural practices, rural development issues, and the wider role that tree-planting plays. The chapters on agroforestry and protection forestry have been virutally rewritten, while throughout the book theimportant place of social forestry is recognized.

Without the assistance of Sherry Bryson, PublicationsOfficer of the Institute, this book would never haveappeared in press. Her work in editing and shepherdingthe manuscripts through the •preparation for printing•phase was outstanding. The diligent work of HelenTakeuchi in proofing, typing, and organizing the chaptersis gratefully recognized. And to Marietta Mendoza, whosetyping efforts went beyond the call of duty, a vote ofthanks. The authors and editor are deeply appreciative ofthe contributions of these staff members.

Based on a list of species in need of attention drawn up by the FAO Panel of Experts on Forest Gene Resources, 8l monographs on endangered woody species and provenances were prepared in collaboration with researchers and institutes from all over the world. The monographs Include information on the botany and silvics of the species, as well as their status in terms of genetic depletion; and outline action needed to conserve existing genetic variation in them.