The Future of the Latin American Natural Forests
By Marc Dourojeanni (04/99, En) See also Environment and Natural Resources
The following paper is part of an IDB book recently published titled Forest Resource Policy in Latin America.
For additional information on the book contact the IDB bookstore.
Deforestation and forest degradation trends of previous decades in Latin America remain unchanged despite international concern and new paradigms such as sustainable development. Social inequities and associated poverty can still be considered the main causes of forest losses, compounded by colonization accepted by governments as part of geo-politics and new economic growth policies--favoring exploitation of natural forests by both the rich and the poor. Natural forests are not being managed, except to some extent as protected areas and, under current social and economic conditions, sustainable management of natural forests may not be profitable. The main opportunity to conserve natural forests may be in the recognition of and payment for the environmental services they provide, and in the production of highly priced "certified green" goods that would make sustainable forest management profitable. However, this solution requires serious world negotiation. Meanwhile, compensatory measures such as the establishment and better management of strictly protected areas are the best tools to delay the loss of ecosystems and species. Also useful are reforestation, agroforestry, restoration of degraded forests and ecotourism.
This working paper is being published with the sole objective of contributing to the debate on a topic of importance to the region, and to elicit comments and suggestions from interested parties. This paper has not gone through the Department's peer review process or undergone consideration by the SDS Management Team. As such, it does not reflect the official position of the Inter-American Development Bank.
Last updated: 05/08/07
