FAO Forestry country profiles - forest management

Issues and concerns

The principle forestry concerns in Tonga relate to deforestation and forest degradation - and an associated need to conserve much of the remaining forest land in the face of continuing demands for consumption. Most areas of lowland forest have been cleared, and this raises concerns over loss of biodiversity, as well as increased incidence of soil erosion and the spread of anthropogenic grasslands. Coastal erosion is also a significant problem in some areas, particularly on Tongatapu. The increase in commercial farming of short term crops instead of traditional agricultural practices is the main cause of forest loss on private lands and remains a key land use issue in Tonga. Some Tongan islands are vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change and sea level rise. The country¿s lack of environmental management experience, as well as limited funding, have been identified as major constraints to achieving sustainable resource use. In terms of managing the forest resources, these have negatively impacted forestry training and the availability of qualified forestry staff.