Forests and Forestry in the Greater Mekong Subregion to 2020

In the 12 years since the first Asia-Pacific Forestry Sector Outlook Study was completed in 1998, the region has experienced tremendous changes in nearly every aspect. These changes have been particularly profound in the forestry sector, where society has dramatically increased its demands and expanded its expectation of forests and forestry. This subregional report for the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) summarizes the key findings and results collated under the second Asia-Pacific Forestry Sector Outlook Study – a comprehensive effort spanning nearly four years and involving all member countries of the Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission. The current report synthesizes observations and findings from five GMS country reports, numerous thematic reports and a wide ranging review of current and past publications in providing analyses of the status and trends of forests and forestry in the GMS. The publication also analyses key factors driving changes in forestry in the region and sets out four scenarios for 2020: Hard times, Slow and steady, Overburn and Living on the edge. The report also outlines priorities and strategies to move the subregion’s forestry sector onto a more sustainable footing and to provide continued benefits to future generations.