Investing in locally controlled forestry: natural protection for people and planet

As a policy research organisation,the International Institute for Environment and Development has evolved key concepts, theories and ways of working in sustainable development since 1973. The big idea we explore here is investing in locally controlled forestry.
This approach rests on the fact that people living in or near forests – families, communities and indigenous peoples – have significant interest in ensuring the sustainability of the forest resources on which they depend. By supporting these communities’ long-term stewardship of forested land, we can tackle two urgent global issues — forest loss and insecure livelihoods — together.