World Forestry Day: Delivering Impact
5 Ways a USAID Sustainable Forest Management Project is Advancing Forest Conservation in Vietnam
Vietnam is home to 14.79 million hectares of forests that provide carbon, ecosystem, and economic services at local, national, and global scales. To celebrate International Day of Forests , the DAI-managed USAID Sustainable Forest Management Project reflects on the progress made towards improved forestry conservation and sustainable management in Vietnam that helps protect this vital resource and supports the Government of Vietnam’s commitment to emission reduction.
Carbon Emissions Reduction: Since 2020, the project has helped Vietnam reduce, sequester, or avoid a substantial 5.4m tons of CO2 emissions. Through the development of sustainable and community forest management plans, supporting forest owners to acquire forest certification, and other actions, the project has helped place 141,401 hectares of forest under improved management.
Improved Community Forest Management: The project has trained 34,767 individuals on forest protection and management and practical business skills for non-timber forest product enterprises. With the right tools and skills to manage their resources, communities are taking an active role in safeguarding their forests.
Policy Development: The project's support has facilitated the development of 61 policies or plans updating Vietnam's forestry legal framework, providing the necessary guidance and structure for sustainable forestry practices, ensuring long-term environmental preservation. The adoption of policies supported by this project is expected to avoid an additional 15m tons of CO2 emissions.
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Investment ?Mobilization: To date, the project has helped mobilize $33.6 million in private and public funds towards 29 conservation-friendly enterprises, including 10 owned by women, to source and develop products from sustainable non-timber forest resources (such as medicinal plants, cinnamon, and others). The funds leveraged ensure enterprises invest in sustainable products while reducing overharvesting.
Livelihood Co-Benefits: 61,356 people have received livelihood co-benefits from project-facilitated sources such as Payment for Environmental services, sustainable non-timber forest product harvesting, securing forest land allocation and/or forest allocation, access to markets, and access to high quality seedlings. This has enhanced forest-dependent community well-being while promoting conservation objectives.
Author: Clarence Caba?ero , Deputy Chief of Party, USAID Sustainable Forest Management Project
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