One of the primary challenges for the conservation and effective management of Peru’s forests is the low economic value assigned to these resources. This leads to conversion of forested lands in favor of unsustainable activities such as illegal logging, mining, migratory agriculture, etc. The Forest+ project will work with the Government of Peru, civil society, and the private sector to develop and implement multi-use forest management strategies to increase the value of Peru’s forests.
FOREST+ represents the new technical collaboration between the United States Forest Service (USFS), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Government of Peru. This initiative aims to promote the implementation of a multiple-use forest management approach in the Amazonian forests of the Loreto, Madre de Dios, and Ucayali regions of Peru. Applying this approach to forest management improves the profitability of non-extractive forest enterprises while helping the Peruvian government meet its international commitments related to climate change mitigation.
HOW DOES THE PROJECT WORK?
FOREST+ seeks to support the Peruvian Government, both at the ministerial and regional government levels, in the creation and implementation of a more holistic regulatory framework that encourages the diversification of forest use and thus improves profitability and sustainability. This regulatory framework will be complemented by a strong focus on the market for non-timber forest products and carbon, as well as applied research for decision making. In addition, the fair inclusion of indigenous groups, youth and women will be promoted, in line with a rights-based approach. Finally, FOREST+ will also assist the Peruvian Government in meeting its nationally determined contributions strategies to combat climate change.
