About FAO News Multimedia Main topics Statistics Members Publications

Sustainable forest management

©Ash Hayes/Unsplash

What is sustainable forest management?

Sustainable forest management (SFM) is defined as a "dynamic and evolving concept, which aims to maintain and enhance the economic, social and environmental values of all types of forests, for the benefit of present and future generations". When sustainably managed, forests and trees make vital contributions to people and the planet by bolstering livelihoods, providing clean air and water, conserving biodiversity and helping combat climate change.

 
FAO’s role in promoting sustainable forest management

Despite the significant progress made towards SFM globally (see this article for an analysis), implementation is highly variable, particularly in the tropics where the capacity to enforce SFM policies, laws and regulations is uneven. Moreover, land uses such as agriculture are often financially more attractive than SFM in the short term, which can encourage deforestation.

FAO supports countries in overcoming these and other forest-related challenges by providing policy advice, technical assistance and capacity building. For example, it helps countries assess their forest resources, define the elements of SFM, monitor progress, and identify, test and promote innovative forest management approaches.

Did you know?
Latest publications