Using Existing Data to Improve Community Forestry Outcomes

Community-based forestry is increasingly promoted as a way to both conserve forests and enhance rural livelihoods. At its best, it does this very well, as illustrated by the numerous examples of successful projects from around the world. But often, these projects also fail to meet their objectives. For decision-makers and practitioners working in local, national and international arenas, it can be challenging to determine how best to support community-based forestry in a given context. This case uses a global dataset on community forestry, and an in-depth case study in Nepal, to illustrate the multitude of factors that need to be considered in promoting community forestry.