Integrating adaptation measures into forest management

This guide presents a pragmatic, step-by-step approach to the design of participatory adaptation strategies in the forest sector. It aims to help reduce the vulnerability of forest ecosystems and forest-dependent communities and enhance their resilience.

While deforestation and degradation of forests caused directly by human activities are the most significant threat to forest ecosystems, climate change constitutes an additional stress factor, further increasing the system’s vulnerability. Consequently, an analysis of vulnerabilities needs to consider all risks, including climate-related ones, so as to have a sound analytical base for the development of climate-resilient forest management strategies.

Experience shows that multi-level (local, regional, national) and multi-sectoral (e.g. forestry, agricultural, livestock) approaches are necessary to address challenges of land and resource scarcity, population growth and sustainable management of natural resources under conditions of increasing climate stress. Within this context, the present guide intends to provide orientation for the forest sector. This is important as practical adaptation experience is rather limited.