Capacity Building in Planning and Forest Assessments

Abstract

The Chapter begins with the statement of the UNCED Agenda 21 on the need for country capacity building in forest assessments and systematic observation of forests, which are the essential requirement for long and medium term forestry planning, for evaluating effects, quantitatively and qualitatively, and for taking remedial measures. The institution for the purpose in most of the tropical counties is, however, far from adequate. As a result, in many cases even the basic information relating to the area and type of forests, existing potential and volume of harvest is lacking. The Chapter presents steps required for capacity building and approach to medium and long term planning and provides an illustration of an inventory for sustainable non-timber forest management planning, which constitutes an important source of livelihood for millions of forest fringe dwellers. Finally, the role of international organizations in facilitating technology transfer to developing countries is highlighted.