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Forests are a valuable resource in reducing poverty

3 March 2005

"We must recognise that successful conservation and replanting of forests requires the full involvement of local communities."

Secretary-General Don McKinnon has said that forests can play an important part in reducing poverty. In a message conveyed by the Secretary-General at the opening of the 17th Commonwealth Forestry Conference in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on 28 February 2005, he stated: "The forestry and forest products industry in member countries provides employment in substantial numbers and there are hundreds of communities across the Commonwealth that rely on the forest products industry for their prosperity."

Mr McKinnon said that for many countries, the export of forest products constitutes an important source of growth and is a major contributor to rural economic development. He stressed that this precious natural resource needs to be well managed.

"We must recognise that successful conservation and replanting of forests requires the full involvement of local communities. In order to achieve progress in this area, we must raise awareness of conservation issues and develop knowledge of planting and management techniques. One way in which we can contribute to this effort is by producing and disseminating tree planting manuals."

The Secretary-General observed that forests are integral to the future of the 1.8 billion Commonwealth citizens as well as the wider international community. He also pledged the Commonwealth's support in addressing forest issues on the basis of consensus and dialogue.

"I'm confident that we will continue to play an important role in this area as we help our members balance the use of forests to create growth and to adopt effective sustainable management strategies."

 

CNIS - the Commonwealth News and Information Service Issue 224 2 March 2005