INTERNATIONAL TROPICALTIMBER COUNCIL

Distr.
GENERAL
ITTC(LII)/8
18 October 2016
Original: ENGLISH

FIFTY-SECOND SESSION
7-12 November 2016
Yokohama, JapanPROGRESS REPORT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE ITTO THEMATIC PROGRAMMES(Item 14 of the Provisional Agenda)

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 1
List of Acronyms
ATIBT
BWP
CFME
CIRAD
CTFT
FFPRI
FLEGT
IDE
INAB
ITTC
ITTO
MoU
MP
NOL
NTFP
OLMS
PSC
REDD
REDDES
TFLET
TLAS
TMT
TP
TPP
UNFCCCYPOInternational Association for Tropical Timber Technologies
Biennial Work ProgrammeCommunity Forest Management and Enterprises
International Agronomic Research Cooperation Centre for Development
Technical Centre for Tropical Forestry
Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute
Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade of the European Union
Industrial Development and Efficiency
National Institute of Forests, GuatemalaInternational Tropical Timber Council
International Tropical Timber Organization
Memorandum of Understanding
Monitoring Protocol
No Objection Letter
Non Timber Forest Products
Online Monitoring System
Project Steering Committee
Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation
Reducing Deforestation and Forest Degradation and Enhancing Environmental Services
Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade
Timber Legality Assurance System
Trade and Market Transparency
Thematic Programme
Thematic Programme Profile
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
Yearly Plan of Operation

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 2
1.

Introduction

This document is prepared pursuant to Decision 8 (XLIV) on the Thematic Programmes subaccount under theSpecial Account, Decision 9 (XLIV) on the Operational Procedures and Guidelines of the Thematic Programmes
on a Pilot Basis, and Decision 10 (XLIV) on the Thematic Programme Profiles, requesting the Executive Director
to prepare annual progress reports on the implementation of the ITTO Thematic Programmes for the Council’s
review.
The thematic programmes (TPs) approved by the Council are:






Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (TFLET)
Reducing Deforestation and Forest Degradation and Enhancing Environmental Services in Tropical
Forests (REDDES)
Community Forest Management and Enterprises (CFME)
Trade and Market Transparency (TMT)
Industry Development and Efficiency (IDE).

In keeping with the above Decisions, this document reports on the status of TP implementation and the progressstmade since the 51 Session of the Council held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 16–21 November 2015; therefore,
the reporting period of this document is nominally from 22 November 2015 to 31 August 2016, when thisdocument was prepared.
Under the TPs, 79 projects have been approved for funding: 29 under TFLET; 31 under REDDES; 5 under
CFME; and 14 under TMT. The tables in Annex I provide an overview on the number of projects by country/region
and TP (Table a), and a list of all projects approved by TP (Table b).
As of August 2016, 51 projects had been completed (including 7 in 2016), 22 projects were ongoing, one project
was pending agreement, one project was in the inception phase, and four projects had lapsed into “sunset”.
Chapter 4 of this document highlights selected achievements and impacts during the reporting period, and Annex
II provides an overview of the status of individual projects (not including projects reported completed at previous
sessions of the Council or sunset projects).
2.

Thematic programme financing

No new pledges were received for the TPs during the reporting period. Table 1 shows pledges received,
commitments and funds available for allocation by TP. Table 2 provides an overview of the pledges made to TPs,by programme and donor, divided into pledges received in the period 2009–2012 and those received following thethapproval of the Strategic Action Plan 2013–2018 at the 48 ITTC.
Table 1. TP Funding Status by Programme
TP
TFLET
REDDES
CFME
TMT
IDE

a) Pledges$9,079,307$9,532,742$1,100,000$2,210,613n/ab) Committed$8,570,721$9,341,770$958,469$2,210,613
n/ac) Available for
Allocation (a – b)
$508,586$190,972$141,531
NILn/a

To date, the IDE TP has received no pledges from donors, and the CFME TP has not received new pledges sinceth
the 46 ITTC in December 2010 and only one call for proposals was launched under that TP in 2010. Of the fiveprojects approved under CFME, one has lapsed into sunset and the other four have been completed.
Recalling Decision 4(XLVIII) on “Strengthening the Thematic Programmes” and its Operative Clause 4, which is
to “urge members to contribute to the Thematic Programmes Sub-Account in order to fully implement ongoing
Thematic Programmes as soon as possible”, the Council may wish to re-emphasize the urgent need for additional
financial pledges for the implementation of all TPs.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 3
Table 2: Pledges to the Thematic Programmes
TP pledges 2009-2012
Donor
NorwayNetherlands
Japan
Australia
Switzerland
USA
UK
EU/CITES
FinlandGermanyJLIA
New ZealandSwedenKorea
Sub-total
Australia
EU/CITES
Switzerland
Japan
USA
Sub-total
Total

Total

TFLET

REDDES

CFME

TMT8,228,960
15,0008,173,960
40,0003,000,000
3,000,000
2,275,953
991,235
483,782
635,000
165,936
280,608
280,608
1,883,040
683,040
400,000
100,000
700,000
1,532,456
757,456
175,000
300,000
300,000
949,380
949,380
356,356
356,356
132,888
35,19997,68977,761
77,76150,00050,00037,53037,53025,00025,00010,00010,00018,839,932
6,887,209
9,232,742
1,100,000
1,619,981
TP pledges after approval of Strategic Action Plan 2013–2018
1,942,098
1,942,098
490,632
490,632
300,000
300,000
200,000
200,000
150,000
50,000100,000
3,082,730
2,192,098
300,000
590,632
Total
21,922,662
9,079,307
9,532,742
1,100,000
2,210,613

IDE

NIL

NIL
NIL

Note : JLIA = Japan Lumber Importers’ Association.

3.

Calls for proposals under the Thematic Programmes

No new calls for proposals were launched during the reporting period, due to a lack of funding. The last call forth
proposals under the TPs was the 5 TMT Cycle, which was launched in November 2014.
4.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned

The main achievements of projects completed during the reporting period and projects about to be completed aresummarized below; please refer to Annex II for additional information. Projects reported to earlier sessions of theCouncil and sunset projects are not included in Annex II. Detailed information on all projects, including project
documents, completion reports, technical reports, ex-post evaluation reports and other materials (e.g. flyers,poster and brochures), is available via the ITTO online project search tool at www.itto.int/project_search/.
Documents (in the original language of submission) are posted as they become available.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 4
TFLET
Two projects were completed under TFLET during the reporting period:
1) TFL-PD 003/09 Rev.2 (M): “Improving governance and transparency of timber harvests and trade in
Cameroon”; and2) TFL-PD 024/10 Rev.3 (M): “Improvement of forest law enforcement at the national level to promote forest
governance in Guatemala”.
TFL-PD 003/09 Rev.2 (M) conducted capacity-building exercises and a series of studies designed to help
improve forest law enforcement. A major achievement was that the project created an opportunity forcollaboration between the forestry administration (MINFOF), the finance administration (MINFI; Customs andTax), the justice administration (MINJUSTICE; Magistrates) and the arms forces administration (MINDEF; Police
and Gendarmerie) in the fight against illegal logging and associated trade in Cameroon. The project also
produced two maps of the main timber trade roads and prepared a code of conduct and professional ethics.
Stakeholders were trained, informed and sensitized on the forestry law and the fight against illegal logging andassociated trade. Five studies were conducted, resulting in reports on: 1) updating timber trade routes in
Cameroon; 2) evaluating the status of forest law enforcement monitoring in Cameroon; 3) reviewing the timbertraceability system in Cameroon; 4) developing a work plan for forest law enforcement; and 5) developing an
information management system for access by the public on illegal timber trade activities to foster transparency.
TFL-PD 024/10 Rev.3 (M) facilitated forest law enforcement from the point of view of the authorities by providing
a monitoring mechanism (called SEINEF) to promote legal practices, and also from the point of view of forest
owners and enterprises involved in timber harvesting, transportation and processing, who are benefiting fromsystems that automate forest-related processes, minimize response times, standardize forms, clarify procedures,
avoid data duplication, minimize human error, limit officers’ discretionary powers and bureaucracy, and meetdeadlines established by law to process their requests and applications. As of January 2015, 1814 enterprises
were registered with INAB (Guatemala’s forestry agency), of which 1440 (nearly 80%) were already using
3
SEINEF. Collectively, these enterprises reported an initial stock volume of timber of 341 240 m to SEINEF. By
the end of 2015, timber from natural forests outside protected areas and within protected areas had been
included in SEINEF, and 86.7% of total local company-to-company transactions were being handled through
SEINEF’s electronic company bill of transport system.
Both these projects contributed to the following TFLET specific objectives: a) strengthening forest law complianceand governance through improved national policy and legal frameworks, strengthened enforcement and otherinstitutions, improved data and knowledge, strengthened partnerships and improved cooperation among theprivate sector, civil-society organizations and other stakeholders; and b) improving transparency and the effective
management of supply chains and increased domestic and international trade in legally produced tropical timber.
Among other outputs produced in the TFLET TP in the reporting period were the following:

A video (in Spanish) titled “Sustainable forest management in Guatemala” (TFL-PD024/10 Rev.2 (M))—
see www.youtube.com/watch?v=940Pv9mthK0&feature=youtu.be.
A video titled, “Empowering civil society organization and other non-state actors to effectively contributeto forest law compliance in Ghana” (TFL-SPD 028/12 Rev.1 (M))—see
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpNzBfSKhXE&spfreload=10.
REDDES

The following five projects were completed in the REDDES TP during the reporting period:
1) RED-PD 026/09 Rev.1 (F): “Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation throughcollaborative management with local communities” (Ghana).
2) RED-PD 031/11 Rev.1 (F): “Rehabilitation and restoration of residual forests and arid savannah lands in
the Akpe and Akama valleys” (Togo).
3) RED-PD 092/12 Rev.1 (F): “Reducing deforestation and forest degradation in the Natchambonga andDjiyega community forests by promoting participatory forest management actions” (Togo).
4) RED-PD 037/11 Rev.2 (F): “Reducing forest degradation and emissions through sustainable
management (SFM) in peninsular Malaysia” (Malaysia).
5) RED-PD 038/11 Rev.3 (F): “Capacity building for REDD+ activities in the context of sustainable forest
management” (Myanmar).

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 5The three projects in Africa (Ghana, Togo x 2) helped in sensitizing local communities in selected (conservation)areas on issues such as deforestation, forest degradation and the rehabilitation of degraded lands and helped
increase technical and managerial capacities and capacity for ecosystem rehabilitation, forest resource
management planning and bushfire control. The projects contributed to the following specific objectives of the
REDDES TP: a) reduce unplanned deforestation; b) reduce forest degradation; and d) contribute to the social andeconomic sustainability and well-being of forest-dependent communities by increasing forest values throughforest restoration and rehabilitation, as well as payments for forest-based environmental services.
The two projects in Malaysia and Myanmar contributed to the reduction of deforestation and forest degradation
through SFM and have fed directly into those countries’ respective national REDD+ mechanisms. The project in
Malaysia is one of several REDD+ pilot projects to enhance readiness for the full implementation of REDD+. The
project in Myanmar pioneered several activities towards REDD+ readiness in Myanmar; for example, as a resultof a series of stakeholder consultation meetings in collaboration with UN-REDD, the Myanmar national REDD+
Readiness Roadmap was adopted in June 2013. Both projects produced numerous papers, project briefs,
awareness materials and technical reports, which can be accessed via the ITTO project search function(www.itto.int/project_search). The main contributions of the two projects to the REDDES specific objectives a) to
reduce unplanned deforestation; b) to reduce forest degradation; and c) to maintain and enhance climate change
mitigation and other environmental services of tropical forests. The project in Malaysia is one of only a few
projects under REDDES to also consider adaptation measures to climate change, thereby contributing to
REDDES specific objective e) to enhance the adaptation and resilience of tropical forests to negative effects ofclimate change and human-induced impacts.
Among other outputs produced under REDDES in the reporting period were the following:

RED-PD 045/11 Rev.2 (M): “Environmental assessment and economic valuation of ecosystem services
provided by coastal forests (mangrove forests, flood forests, rain forests and scrub forests on dunes) andtheir agricultural replacement systems on the central coastal plain of Veracruz, Mexico” produced threevideos (www.youtube.com/user/ittosfm):
1) “Environmental services of coastal forests in Veracruz” (in Spanish)
2) “What’s connectivity?” (in Spanish)3) “Economic valuation” (in Spanish).
The project also produced a substantial number of outreach materials, maps, technical reports andscientific papers available via the ITTO project search function (www.itto.int/project_search).
TMT

No projects were completed in the TMT TP during the reporting period, but the following achievements towards
the TMT programmatic objectives can be highlighted:








TMT-SPD 020/15 (M): “Support for ANAFOR for optimum operation of the database management of
Pericopsis elata (assamela) in Cameroon” developed a database on assamela, and users have been
trained.
TMT-SPD 023/15 Rev.1 (M): “Supporting SMEs and importers of tropical timber for better understandingof CITES and the need to comply with CITES rules in China” (China) has established a CITES WeChat
mobile webpage, which updates information on CITES every two weeks and enables dialogue between
small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and importers and exporters on CITES-related issues. The
site is linked to another ITTO project, which established the FPI WeChat mobile webpage to maximize
impact and dissemination and provide more information to relevant stakeholders.
TMT-SPD 012/12 Rev.1 (M): “Improving intra-African trade and market transparency in timber and timber
products” (Ghana) has developed a website for an online timber marketplace, and the design of theAfrican Timber Newsletter and social pages has been finalized.
TMT-SPD 022/15 Rev.2 (M): “Establishment of a fully documented reference sample collection andidentification system for all CITES-listed Dalbergia species and a feasibility study for Diospyros and lookalike species” (Guatemala, Madagascar, Switzerland) has completed its laboratory work (at ETH Zurich)to test protocols for DNA extraction and amplification for Dalbergia wood and to increase the reference
dataset for Madagascar. The establishment of the wood anatomy laboratory has been completed andwood anatomy work has commenced.
TMT-SPD 014/13 Rev.1 (M): “Enhancing the sustainable management and commercial utilization of the
CITES-listed species Cedrela odorata (red cedar) in Guyana” (Guyana) has completed the first Resource
Assessment and Forest Management Plan for Cedrela odorata (red cedar) in Guyana, providing

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 6comprehensive information on the species. The report provides all the information necessary for Guyana
to decide whether to list red cedar in CITES Appendix III.
The highlighted achievements mainly contribute to TMT specific objectives a) to strengthen information
systems on markets and the forest sector, and b) to fill gaps in the market transparency of tropical timber andtimber products.
5.

Impact of the impairment of ITTO funds on TP projects

The impairment of ITTO funds and the subsequent suspension of payments to projects has affected 13 ongoingprojects under the TPs: six under TFLET, two under REDDES and five under TMT. The total funding affected isapproximately US$1.74 million. It is expected that the five projects under TMT will be fully funded and completed
once the final payment under the contract with the EC for Phase 2 of the ITTO-CITES program has been received(expected by the end of 2016).

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 7

Annex Ia) Projects by country/region and TP
Country/Region
Cameroon
Congo
DRC
Gabon
Ghana
Liberia
Mali
Togo
Africa Total
Australia
China
Indonesia
Malaysia
Myanmar
PNG
ThailandAsia Pacific Total
BrazilColombia
EcuadorGuatemala
GuyanaHonduras/Guatemala
MexicoPanamaPeru
Latin America Total
TFLET pre-cursor
FranceGermany
GlobalITTO Secretariat
Others Total

TFLET
2

REDDES
3

CFME

TMT
1
1

1
2

3
1

1

(1)*
2

1

4(1)

1
5
1
1
4

1
(1)*
7(1)

2
10
2
3
1
1
(1)*
7(1)
2

1
1

1
(1)*
2(1)

1

1
3

1
2
7
8

1
2
1
1
1

1
2

2
10

3
1

1

9
28(1)

3
3
30(1)

1
1
4(1)

* projects gone into sunset (not counted in the totals)

1
3
5
13(1)

Funded projects
6
1
1
(1)*
8
1
1
2
20(1)
1
4
8
1
1
2
(3)*
17(3)
2
1
1
6
3
1
1
1
4
20
8
1
1
1
7
18
75(4)

Funding US$
1,038,082
130,000
476,820(138,996)*
1,799,480
149,922
149,707628,798
4,372,809
518,833
766,8963,489,425
590,922571,890
269,320(201,447)*
6,207,286
1,266,894
91,498
149,922
1,293,414
858,240
144,650
470,682
412,556
1,041,080
5,728,936
2,792,998
138,033
155,522200,000
1,053,926
4,340,479
20,649,510

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 8b) List of approved projects (by Thematic Programme)

Submitted
byBWP
2008/2009
BWP
2008/2009

Project ID
PP-A/43-193
PP-A/43-194

BWP
2008/2009

PP-A/43-200

BWP
2008/2009

PP-A/43-202

AfricaPD 124/01 Rev.
2 (M) Phase II –Stage 2
TFL-PD 037/13
Rev. 2 (M)Australia

Cambodia

Enhance capacity of small and medium size enterprises to produce
and trade timber from legally and sustainable source
Promote trade in tropical timber and tropical timber products fromsustainably managed and legally harvested sources

Completedth(48 ITTC)$ 200,000

Completedth(48 ITTC)$ 544,070

Completedth(46 ITTC)

Implementing a DNA timber tracking system in Indonesia$518,833

Ongoing$561,195$365,526

Completedth(48 ITTC)
Completed$302,562

Ongoing$322,056

Completedst(51 ITTC)$91,498

Completedth(48 ITTC)$155,522

Completedth(47 ITTC)$163,039

Completedth(49 ITTC)$147,701$563,339

Completedst(51 ITTC)
Completed$74,586

Ongoing$66,942

Ongoing$474,163$456,680

Completedth(50 ITTC)
Completedth(50 ITTC)
Ongoing$495,880

Ongoing

TFL-PD 017/09
Rev.2 (M)Colombia

TFL-PPD 001/09
Rev.2 (M)Germany

TFL-PPD 023/10
Rev.1 (F)Ghana

TFL-SPD 007/09
Rev.1 (M)

Ghana

TFL-SPD 028/12
Rev.1 (M)
TFL-PD 024/10
Rev.2 (M)
TFL-PPD 040/13
Rev.2 (M)
TFL-PPD
045/13 Rev. 2(M)
TFL-PD 010/09
Rev.1 (M)
TFL-PD 019/10
Rev.2 (M)
TFL-PD 032/13
Rev. 2 (M)Improving forest product monitoring and efficiency through thedevelopment of a program to enhance the performance of the
primary forest processing industry
Strengthening the capacity of related stakeholders in Java on
implementing new Indonesian TLAS
Developing collaborative management in the Cibodas Biosphere
Reserve, West Java Indonesia
Strengthening the Capacity of Local Institutions to Sustainably
Manage community Forestry in Sanggau for Improving Livelihood

TFL-PD 033/13
Rev. 2 (M)Strengthening the governance of community forest throughimproved capacity to adequately perform timber administration inJava and Nusa Tenggara region in Indonesia

Guatemala
Guatemala

GuatemalaIndonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia

Indonesia$ 600,000

Status(reported at)Completedth(48 ITTC)
Completedth(50 ITTC)$ 100,000

China

Cameroon

ITTO
Funding$ 300,000

Provide technical assistance for selected poor local/indigenous
communities to formulate project proposals for submission to ITTO
for management of forests and sustainable timber production
Global assessment of the status of tropical forest tenure withidentification of trends and implications for investment andmanagement, and for convening an expert workshop on Tropical
Forest Tenure and Business Models, including formulation of a
project to assist Civil Society Organization(s) to set up and operate
on a pilot basis a remote sensing system to detect illegal logging
activities in areas known to be critically affected by such activities
Promotion of Sustainable Management of African Forests(ITTO/ATO)

Strengthening Capacity of Forest Law Enforcement andGovernance (Cambodia)
Improving governance and transparency of timber harvests andtrade in Cameroon
Reduction of illegal logging through better governance ofcommunity forests in the Lom et Djerem Division, East region,
Cameroon
Equipping small and medium sized forestry enterprises in China for
procurement of tropical timber from legal and sustainably managed
forests
Implementing and promoting sustainable forest management
through formulation of an action plan for improved forest law
enforcement and governance in Colombia
Development and implementation of a species identification andtimber tracking system in Africa with DNA fingerprints and stable
isotopes
Strengthening the capacity of small-medium enterprises in Ghana
to produce and trade in timber products from legal and sustainablesources
Empowering civil society organizations and other non-state actors toeffectively contribute to forest law compliance in Ghana
Improvement of forest law enforcement at the national level topromote forest governance in Guatemala
Development of a program to strengthen the traceability of legallysourced forest products in Guatemala

Cameroon

PD 493/07 Rev.1(F)
TFL-PD 003/09
Rev.2 (M)
TFL-PD 014/09
Rev.1 (M)

TFLET approved projects
Title$496,670

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 9TFLET approved projects
Submitted
byMali

Panama

Peru
Peru
Peru

PNG
PNG

Thailand

Project ID

Title

TFL-SPD
038/13 Rev.3(M)
TFL-PD 044/13
Rev.2 (M)Capacity-building programme to foster law enforcement and local
governance over timber use and marketing activities in the Segou
region, MaliStrengthening of ANAM’s management capacity to reduce illegal
logging and trade in the eastern region of Panama (Bayano andDarien) through monitoring and control mechanisms
Verifying the Legality of Timber Forest Products in Peru

PPD 138/07
Rev.1 (M)
TFL-SPD 029/12
Rev.1 (M)
TFL-SPD 030/12
Rev.1 (M)PD 449/07 Rev.2(M,I)
TFL-SPD
043/13 Rev. 1(M)
TFL-PPD 005/09
Rev.1 (F)Marketing of timber from legal and sustainable sources byindigenous communities in Ucayali, Peru for the fair trade market
Improved governance and implementation of transparent
negotiation mechanisms for indigenous community forestry inAtalaya (Ucayali), Peru
Enhancing Forest Law Enforcement in Papua New Guinea

ITTO
Funding$149,707

Status(reported at)Completedst(51 ITTC)$412,556

Ongoing$79,844

Completedth(48 ITTC)
Completedst(51 ITTC)
Completedst(51 ITTC)$137,941$131,236$ 473,040

Completedst(51 ITTC)
Inception
Phase

Chain of Custody Verification for Timber Processors in Papua New
Guinea$147,280

Strengthening the capacity of local communities of Chaiyapum
Province (Thailand) to manage community forest$56,970

SunsetITTO
Funding$1,124,784

Status(reported at)
Ongoing
Pending
Agreement
Completedst(51 ITTC)REDDES approved projects
Submitted
byBrazilProject ID

Title

RED-PD 029/09
Rev.1 (F)Monitoring deforestation, logging and land use change in the Pan
Amazonian Forest - PANAMAZON II

RED-SPD
058/11 Rev.2 (F)RED-PPD
050/11 Rev.1(F)
RED-PPD
051/11 Rev.1(F)

Developing REDD+ES in the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest$142,110

Participatory development, conservation and rehabilitation of
degraded forest areas in the Bamboutos Mountain chain, West
CameroonContribution to the implementation of REDD mechanisms byenhancing the participation of stakeholders in sustainable forest
management in Cameroon$73,613$81,864

Completedth(49 ITTC)

Cameroon

RED-PPD
074/12 Rev.1 (F)$101,117

Completedth(50 ITTC)

China

RED-SPD
020/09 Rev.1 (F)$149,040

Completedth(48 ITTC)

China

RED-SPD
075/12 Rev.1 (F)RED-A 023/09
Rev.1 (F)Identification of a project on gender mainstreaming in thedevelopment of actions to control deforestation and forest
degradation, to improve the well-being of communities dependent
on forests and other ecosystems in Central and West Africa
Development and demonstration on scheme of payment forenvironmental services (PES) derived from degraded andsecondary tropical production forests in China.
Demonstration on investigation and assessment of typical forest
ecotourism resources in Hainan province, China
Technical Support for the Development of a National Forest
Inventory in the Democratic Republic of Congo to assess carbon
stocks and changes in carbon stocks of forest land
Integrating sustainable livelihoods, environmental mortgages, andscience-based reforestation for tangible forest conservation change
in the Ecuadorian Chocó
Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation
through collaborative management with local communities
Rehabilitation of degraded forests for sustainable wood fuelproduction and climate change mitigation in the forest-savannatransition zone of Ghana
Advancing REDD+ in Ghana: preparation of REDD+ pilot schemes
in off-reserve forests and agro-forests$145,800

Completedst(51 ITTC)
Completedth(48 ITTC)

Local REDDES programme for development and addressing
climate change in Guatemala: Building social processes forsustainability

BrazilCameroon

Cameroon

DRC

Ecuador

Ghana
Ghana

RED-SPD
055/11 Rev.1(F)
RED-PD 026/09
Rev.1 (F)RED-SPD
077/12 Rev.1 (F)Ghana

RED-PD 093/12
Rev.3 (F)

Guatemala

RED-PPD
006/09 Rev.2 (F)$476,820$149,922

Completedst(51 ITTC)$658,716

Completed$121,662

Ongoing$297,205

Ongoing$82,080

Completedth(49 ITTC)ITTC(LII)/8
Page 10REDDES approved projects
Submitted
byGuatemala

GuyanaProject ID

Title

RED-SPD
079/12 Rev.1(F)
RED-PD 005/09
Rev.2 (F)Strengthening of governance and sustainable management ofmangrove ecosystems in Guatemala as a climate change
adaptation measure
Strengthening Guyana's capacity to manage forest resources andenvironmental services through resources assessment andmonitoring changes in deforestation and degradation
Designing a Programme for Capacity Building and Meaningful
Stakeholder Participation in Forest Governance and REDD+ in
Honduras and Guatemala

Honduras/
Guatemala

RED-PPD
041/11 Rev.2 (F)Indonesia

RED-PD 007/09
Rev.2 (F)Indonesia

RED-SPD009/09 Rev.2 (F)Indonesia

RED-PD 064/11
Rev.2 (F)ITTO

RED-A 004/09
Rev.1 (F)
RED-PA 056/11
Rev.1 (F)

ITTO

ITTO
Funding$146,751

Status(reported at)
Ongoing$400,680

Completedth(48 ITTC)$144,650

Completedth(50 ITTC)

Enhancing forest carbon stock to reduce emission fromdeforestation and degradation through sustainable forest
management (SFM) initiatives in Indonesia
Promoting the partnership efforts to reduce emission fromdeforestation and forest degradation of tropical peatland in south
Sumatra through the enhancement of conservation and restoration
activities
Promoting Local Community Initiative on the Rehabilitation ofMangrove Ecosystem with Demonstration Activities in Bintan Island
to Reduce further Deforestation and Forest Degradation
Building a voluntary carbon marketing scheme to promotesustainable forest management
Strengthening the capacity of ITTO producer countries in Africa ingenerating and disseminating scientific information on Reducing
Deforestation and Forest Degradation and Enhancing
Environmental Services from Forests
Quantifying the REDD+ effect of ITTO projects$447,071

Completedth(48 ITTC)$149,493

Completedth(50 ITTC)$504,317

Completedst(51 ITTC)$97,180

Completedth(46 ITTC)
Completedth(50 ITTC)$143,510

Completedth(50 ITTC)$253,120

ITTO

RED-PA 069/11
Rev.1 (F)Liberia

RED-SPD
084/12 Rev.1 (F)Improving efficacy of forestry policies and activities in Liberia
through REDD+ demonstration projects$149,922

Ongoing

Malaysia

RED-PD 037/11
Rev.2 (F)

Reducing forest degradation and emissions through sustainable
forest management (SFM) in peninsular Malaysia$590,922

Completed

MexicoRED-PD 045/11
Rev.2 (M)$470,682

Ongoing

Myanmar

RED-PD 038/11
Rev.3 (F)

Environmental assessment and economic valuation of ecosystemservices provided by coastal forests (mangrove forests, flood
forests, rain forests and scrub forests on dunes) and theiragricultural replacement systems on the central coastal plain of
Veracruz, Mexico
Capacity building for developing REDD+ activities in the context ofsustainable forest management$571,890

Completed

Peru

RED-PD 018/09
Rev.1 (F)$356,519

Completedst(51 ITTC)

Peru

RED-PD 033/11
Rev.2 (F)Sustainable forest management and utilization of ecosystemservices in forests managed by the Ese'Eja naïve community inInfierno, Peru
Value adding to environmental services from managed forests
belonging to seven communities in the Ucayali region$415,384

Completedst(51 ITTC)

Thailand

RED-SPD
039/11 Rev.1 (F)Improving the quality and coverage of the estimates of carbon
stocks in Thailand's forests and trees outside forest: Phase I$113,373

SunsetTogo

RED-PD 031/11
Rev.1 (F)

Rehabilitation and restoration of residual forests and arid savannahlands in the Akpé and Akama valleys$478,894

Completed

Togo

RED-SPD
092/12 Rev.1 (F)Reducing deforestation and forest degradation in the
Natchambonga and Djiyega community forests by promoting
participatory forest management actions$149,904

Completed

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 11

CFME approved projects
Submitted
byGhana

Project ID

Title

CFM-SPD
007/10 Rev.1 (F)CFM-PD 001/10
Rev.1 (F)CFM-PA 009/10
Rev.2 (F)

Enrichment of young forest plantations with selected NTFPs forlivelihood improvement and support of forest fringe communities in
Atwima Mponua District of Ghana, in order to secure and protect
the resources on a sustainable forest management basis
Strengthening capacity of stakeholders for the development ofcommunity-based plantation forest at 3 selected areas in Indonesia
International Conference on Forest Tenure, Governance and Smalland Medium Forest Enterprises with Focus in the Asia Pacific

PNG

CFM-PPD
006/10 Rev.1 (F)Enabling customary landowners to participate effectively in CFM
and REDD schemes within four pilot areas of PNG

Thailand

CFM-PPD
Increasing access to markets and capital for teak plantation
005/10 Rev.1 (M) smallholders in Thailand

Indonesia
ITTO

ITTO
Funding$149,229

Status(reported at)Completedth(49 ITTC)$465,151

Completedth(50 ITTC)
Completedth(47 ITTC)$200,000$122,040

Completedst(51 ITTC)$31,104

SunsetITTO
Funding$113,400

Status(reported at)
Ongoing

TMT approved projects
Project ID

Title

Cameroon

TMT-SPD
020/15 (M)Support to ANAFOR for the Optimal Operation of the P. Elata(Assamela) Management Data Base in Cameroon

China

TMT-SPD
023/15 Rev.1(M)

Supporting SMEs and Importers of Tropical Timber for Better
Understanding of CITES and the need to Comply with CITES
Rules in China$150,000

Ongoing

Congo

TMT-SPD
021/15 (I)
TMT-SPD 010/12
Rev.1 (M)

Establishment of a Monitoring Centre for the Industrial use of P.
Elata in the Republic of Congost
Preparation of the publication “Atlas of tropical timber species – 1
Edition: Technological characteristics and uses of 273 tropicaltimber species (and 17 temperate species)”$130,000

Ongoing$138,033

Ongoing

Gabon

TMT-SPD 011/12 Adaptation and application at the national scale of the Trace BoisRev.2 (M)Gabon (Gabon timber tracking) for the collection and processing offorest and timber statistics in Gabon$138,996

SunsetGhana

TMT-SPD 012/12
Rev.1 (M)
TMT-SPD
017/15 Rev. 2(M)
TMT-SPD
022/15 (M)$111,931

Ongoing$149,997

Ongoing

Establishment of a fully documented reference sample collection
and identification system for all CITES-listed Dalbergia species anda feasibility study for Diospyros and look-alike species
TMT-PD 004/11
Strengthening of the forest information system of Guatemala toRev.2 (M)improve market and trade transparency and decision-making in theforest sector.
TMT-PD 006/11
Strengthening market information systems to enhance trade andRev.3 (M)market intelligence in the forest sector of Guyana
TMT-SPD 014/13 Enhancing the Sustainable Management and Commercial
Rev.1 (M)
Utilization of the CITES-listed Species Cedrela odorata (Red Cedar)in Guyana
TMT-SPD 002/10 Improving resilience of the tropical timber sector to the impacts of
Rev.1 (M)global and regional economic and financial crises
TMT-PA 007/11
Methodological Development for Life Cycle Analysis of Tropical
Rev.1 (I)
Wood Products to Improve their Competitiveness in International
Markets$200,000

Ongoing$359,716

Ongoing$320,920

Completedst(51 ITTC)
Ongoing

TMT-SPD 013/12 Analysis of the Economic Impact of Governmental Procurement
Rev.1 (M)
Policies on Tropical Timber Markets$150,000FranceGhana

GlobalGuatemala

GuyanaGuyana

ITTO
ITTO

ITTO

Improving intra-African trade and market transparency in timber
and timber products
Improving Sustainable Pericopsis elata Conservation and Trade
Regulation in Ghana$136,640$150,000$60,116

Completedth(48 ITTC)
Completedth(48 ITTC)
Completedth(50 ITTC)ITTC(LII)/8
Page 12ANNEX IISTATUS OF APPROVED ACTIVITIES, PRE-PROJECTS, SMALL PROJECTS AND PROJECTS(Projects reported completed to earlier sessions of the ITTC and projects lapsed under ITTO’s ‘sunset’ clause due to notcommencing implementation within 26 months of approval/funding are not included)

TFLET
Implementing a DNA timber tracking system in Indonesia
Project number:
TFL-PD 037/13 Rev. 2 (M)Project country:

Australia

Budget:Total:

US$ 549,763

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 518,833

UoA

US$ 30,793

Submitted by:

Government of Australia

Implementing agency: University of Adelaide, UoA, Australia
Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

6 TFLET Cycle (2013)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
Illegal logging and associated trade are the cause of many economic and ecological problems both in timber
producer and timber consumer countries. The key problem to be addressed by this project is the weak capacity inforest law enforcement. DNA marker methods use characters inherent in the timber (i.e. impossible to falsify) andguarantee a method, which is cost effective and statistically robust, for controlling the origin of wood and wood
products. The project will develop a species identification and timber tracking system using DNA methods forimportant Indonesian timber tree species, the red meranti group; and light red Meranti. For two of these species
leaf, cambium and wood samples will be collected from across their distribution area and gene markers will be
developed that differentiate genetically between trees of different locations and also work for processed timber.
The samples will be screened for DNA markers and provide a genetic reference data base to control the region oforigin. Using DNA-fingerprints a tree by tree approach to control the chain of custody will also be applied for light
red meranti in cooperation with timber companies in Indonesia. As measures of capacity building and technology
transfer, staff from the Indonesian partners will be trained to apply DNA-techniques to perform simple DNA tests
to check origin. The University of Adelaide in Australia is the executive agency and will work closely with CFBTI in
FORDA and other institutes from Indonesia, Germany and USA.
Progress:
The project agreement has been signed in September 2014 and implementation has started on 12 August 2015.
The first PSC meeting was held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia on 24 November 2015. The project has been able to
make substantial progress.
Collection of samples:
Sixteen sites were selected for collection of dipterocarp species across Kalimantan. The sites were selected toreflect species diversity and distribution as well as diverse environmental conditions.
The total number of trees tagged and cambium samples collected is 1839 comprised of 136 species of which 115
are of known/identified species, 21 are unidentified (herbarium vouchers of unidentified species have been sent to
LIPI Herbarium for identification). The genera sampled are Anisoptera (4 sp), Cotylelobium (2 sp), Dipterocarpus(26 sp), Dryobalanops (4 sp), Hopea (11 sp), Parashorea (4 sp), Shorea (73 sp), Upuna (1 sp), and Vatica (11sp). Collection of samples at the last site 15 in central Kalimantan (PT. Austral Bina) has been deferred to a later
date due to limited budget.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 13
DNA extraction of samples:
A total of 476 samples have been processed for DNA extraction and the DNA had been shipped to Adelaide forfurther analysis. Details of the DNA samples are 103 DNA samples from leaf and 403 DNA samples fromcambium. Those 476 samples are from 85 species. In addition, high quality and quantity DNA has been extracted
from 20 leaves of a single Shorea laevis individual to facilitate genome sequencing.
DNA barcoding marker design:
Markers used in existing DNA barcoding work on the group have been selected for screening. The other standard
DNA barcode for plants has been used, matK. Nuclear regions ITS and SODH have also been selected, alongwith loci for seven genome regions designed by R. Dixon and E. Biffin (staff at UoA) to be universal for land
plants. Novel markers are also being developed using a double digest Restriction-site Associated DNA (ddRAD)
approach. This approach utilizes a pair of restriction enzymes to fragment the genomic DNA of each sample atthe enzyme specific restriction sites. The wet lab protocols and sequencing for this process have been completed
and the resulting data are now being analyzed.
Genome Sequencing:
In order to provide a reference genome to aid bioinformatic processing of the Dipterocarpaceae data, the species
Shorea laevis has been selected for genome sequencing. This work is underway in conjunction with our partners
at the Australian Genome Research Facility in Adelaide and will provide the first genome sequence for a
Dipterocarpaceae species.
Development of intra-specific DNA markers for Shorea laevis:
DNA from 73 individual Shorea laevis trees has been extracted and 24 samples from across the range selected
for a ddRAD sequencing run to identify intra-specific DNA markers to facilitate chain of custody spot checking andto evaluate the within species genetic structure and its potential for determining provenance. The ddRAD wet lab
work has been completed and the final sequencing and bioinformatic analyses are underway.
Stakeholder Workshop:
The first stakeholder workshop was held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia from 10-11 March 2016. The workshop
involved representatives from scientific, governmental, industrial, certification and NGO sectors. During theworkshop, after introducing the project and understanding the requirements of the certification and industrial
sectors, the partners were able to focus on stakeholder requirements and how they can be incorporated into theproject, increasing the likelihood that outputs will be implemented. Some key recommendations which have been
adopted are:

Focus on bangkerai products (Shorea laevis) as species substitution is an important issue threatening
the reputation of legally sourced Indonesian timber.
Develop tests that are cheap for the end-user.
Develop tests that are easily implementable with government legislation, for example the SVLK
certification process in Indonesia.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
While excellent progress has been made with the sampling efforts exceeding expectations and delivering many
more species and samples than was originally planned. However, management and analyses of these collections
introduce further costs. Prudent choices have been made about which samples and species to focus on initially tofacilitate marker development which has also progressed extremely well. The project is on schedule with respect
to technology transfer and ahead thanks to the delivery of the stakeholder workshop in March 2016. The
resources to continue laboratory work in Adelaide are in place, so that the design of the final markers forscreening can be completed. Actual screening of all samples will need to wait for additional funding. After the
initial PSC, the Executive Agency was encouraged to apply for additional funds for the project (US$247,934). An
application was submitted in March 2016 through the electronic no objection procedure. Since June 2016 theproject has been impacted by the suspension of payment due to the impairment of ITTO funds.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 14
Improving governance and transparency of timber harvests and trade in Cameroon
Project number:

TFL-PD 003/09 Rev.2 (M)Project country:

Cameroon

Budget:Total:

US$ 418,626

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 365,526

Traffic International:

US$ 53,100

Submitted by:

Government of Cameroon

Implementing agency: Traffic International
Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

TFLET 2 Cycle (2009)

Status:CompletedndSummary:
The project is designed to contribute to the improvement of governance and transparency of timber harvest andtraded in Cameroon and internationally by strengthening the national process for controlling illegal logging andassociated trade in Cameroon in order to contribute to transparency of timber trade in Cameroon with a view toaddress the problems of unsustainable timber harvesting, weak forest law enforcement and illegal trade of thecountry’s timber.
Progress:
The project has initially experienced a substantial delay. Although the project agreement has been signed in
March 2010, the project implementation only commenced on October 2011. The delay was due to the need forrevisions to the work plan and the inception report, and arrangements between the Executing Agency and thecollaborating counterparts at MINFOF, Cameroon.
Activities carried out over the implementation period include:












A total of 22 MINFOF officials benefited from two training of trainer’s workshops organized by the project.
Part of the workshop involved the review of the training modules on law enforcement developed by aconsultant recruited by the project Inputs from workshop have been incorporated in the final version of
the manual.
Forty three (43) officials from Finance (Customs and Tax), Justice, Police and Gendarmerie were trainedin three training of trainer’s workshops.
Train forest logging companies in relevant FLE aspects of their work completed with the participation of
six logging companies including representative of logging companies and Douala sea port timber’s parks
in the first training of trainer’s workshop.
A study to gather information on timber routes was carried out; a report is available with maps identifying
new timber routes.
A draft report on the interagency national coordination committee work plan was prepared.
Establishment of an interagency coordination committee for FLE was not completed. However, the termsof reference were prepared with strong recommendation that it should be managed by the prime minster
office since it involves several ministries.
A draft code of conduct and professional ethics for forest controllers in Cameroon has also been
produced.
A draft report on status of the traceability systems in Cameroon produced and available.
An information system for the monitoring of forest products trade was developed and report prepared.
Actual field work focused on the update of the IT data management system at MINFOF for
communication to public and transparency promotion.

The Executing Agency has submitted the completion report, the technical reports and the final audit report. The
project may be declared duly completed.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 15
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
A total of four training of trainer’s workshops on forest law enforcement, forest regulation and control wereconducted that befitted more than one hundred participants of whom sixty-five were direct beneficiaries and therest indirect stakeholders.
The project developed a manual on forest legislation and control with five modules based on the various capacity
building workshops organized by the project. Five studies were conducted and are annexed to this report on thefollowing i) to update timber trade routes in the country; ii) to evaluate the status FLE monitoring in Cameroon; iii)
to review the timber traceability system in Cameroon; iv) to develop a work plan for FLE and v) to develop an
information management and communication to the public on illegal timber trade activities to foster transparency.
The project has also produced 2 maps of the main timber trade roads as part of the study and a code of conduct
and professional ethics has also been prepared as an annex to the study to the monitoring of FLE in Cameroon.
In order to foster relations between relevant stakeholders, an agreement has been reached to put in place a
National Coordination Unit on forest law enforcement under the auspices of the Prime Minister Offices.
Those significant achievements have resulted in the improvements in improved capacity and forest law
enforcement as compared to the period before the project. Stakeholders were trained, informed and sensitized onforestry law and the fight against illegal logging and associated trade. The various government stakeholders in theagencies now know their roles and responsibilities of better, and how and where and when they shouldcollaborate based on their mandate and legal frameworks.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 16
Reduction of illegal logging through better governance of community forests in the Lom and Djerem
Division, east region, Cameroon
Project number:

TFL-PD 014/09 Rev.1 (M)Project country:

Cameroon

Budget:Total:

US$ 355,062

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 302,562

Government of Cameroon:

US$ 52,500

Submitted by:

Government of Cameroon

Implementing agency: Forestry Department, Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF)
Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

TFLET 2 Cycle (2009)

Status:Ongoingnd

Summary:This project seeks to reduce illegal logging and poverty in the Lom and Djerem Division through better
governance and development of community forestry. The specific objectives include to sufficiently satisfy thedemand of wood in the north and neighboring countries through better organization of timber markets andpromotion of the creation and implementation of legal timber titles; and to reduce poverty at the community level
through good governance in managing existing community forest and micro-development projects in the Lom andDjerem Division. The expected outputs are:









to assist 6 communities in obtaining and managing community forests;
to sensitize the Lom and Djerem councils on the creation of council forests;
to supply the Northern markets with sawmill residues;
to better understand and disseminate the timber market chain from Lom and Djerem to the Northern
regions;
to put in place a wood tracking system from the Koundi community forest;
to reinforce the capacities of members of the Koundi community in increasing and better managing
revenues from their forest;
to sensitize all actors on legal wood trade; andto install and have a functional Coordination Unit in place.

Progress:
Following the project implementation in January 2011, the project has experienced a delay in project
implementation due to various factors, including the transfer/re-assignment of several officials (in charge of the
project) within the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife and difficulties to comply with reporting requirements. In
addition some negative impacts of bad weather particularly at the project site in the Eastern Region.
The following project activities have been carried out:






Two sensitization meetings held with strong representation and very active participation of the local
communities, organized by both MINFOF and Forum in Diang and Belabo respectively.
The six local communities selected to participate in the project include: Moundi, Mbeth II and Kanda (inthe Diang Sub-Division); Ndjangané-Adiah, Belabo -Ekak-Yoa village and Mambaya (in the Belabo SubDivision).
Six management entities were created by the selected local communities. These include the TANG
BALA CIG in Moundi, the BWOK CIG in Mbeth II, the FOFFA CIG in Kanda, the NA CIG in NdjanganéAdiah, the BEY CIG in Ekak-Yoa Village (Belabo) and the NYALODJO’O CIG in Mambaya. These
groupings have to date, all gained legal recognition under the adopted appellation of ‘Community
Initiative Group’ (CIG).
The species inventory of the community forest allocated to the FOFFA CIG in Kanda has been
completed.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 17


















The communes/counties of Lom and Djerem are sensitized for the creation commune’s/county’s forests;
Northern regions are supplied with residues of sawmills.
The trade channel of timber products from Lom and Djerem to northern regions is identified anddisseminated/publicized.
The chain-of-custody system for timber products from the existing community forest of the village ofKoundi is established.
The capacity of the member of the advisory committee of the village of Koundi is reinforced for the
management of revenue from their community forest.
All stakeholders are sensitized on legal timber trade.
A coordination structure is established.
Assist 06 communities (FOFA GIC, GIC BWOK of MBETH II, TANG GIC, GIC NYIALODJO'O, GIC and
GIC NA BEY) to develop simple management plan for the forest.
Organized training workshops on economic opportunities to use wood waste plants.
Facilitated collaboration between communities and logging companies on the recovery of wood residues
from plants.
Sensitized communities and traders on the results of the detailed study of marketing channels between
Lom and Djerem and the Region.
Established an information system on the timber market.
A system of traceability of wood from the community forest Koundi is established.
Created a database for the community forest Koundi.
Established a system of traceability of the community forest Koundi.
Trained communities on better utilization of non-timber forest products.
Strengthened the capacity of members of the management office of the community forest Koundi,financial management and management of micro-projects.

The first and second installments of funds US$180,000 were made in December 2010 and December 2012
respectively. The final installment in the amount of US$ 65,150 is pending. The project has suffered significant
delays in its implementation due to various reasons. Since September 2014, there has no updated reporting
including the required progress reports and audit reports as well as the financial statements and cash flow
statements, and remaining activities are unlikely to be completed in a timely manner.
The ITTO Secretariat has sent a number of reminders to the EA, including electronic letters in December 2014
and January, June, December of 2015, requesting the submission of the up-to-date progress report and the audit
report with the financial and cash flow statements without receiving any reply. Subsequently, in April 2016, theSecretariat informed the EA that further delays in the reporting may have negative consequences on the further
execution of the project and the release of any further funding. At the time of preparing this report, no response
has been received from the EA.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
The Government of Cameroon will get information for the formulation elaboration of the appropriate policy aiming
to mitigate the problem of illegal logging in Cameroon in compliance with international regulations.
Regions and Departments near Lom and Djerem will benefit from the chain-of-custody system established fortimber products trade to address similar problems.
Local communities will have fair access and rights to forest resources, for poverty reduction Lom and Djerem
through good governance and good management of community forests with a significant impact on local
development. Communities had their capacity to negotiate with timber traders improved. Northern regions andneighboring countries will be supplied with legal timber products.
During the implementation of the project, training workshops on economic opportunities to use wood waste
plants, better utilization of non-timber forest products, and capacity of members of the management office of thecommunity forest were carried out. In the meantime, the information system on the timber market, the system oftraceability of wood from the community forest Koundi, the database for the community forest Koundi, and thesystem of traceability of the community forest Koundi were established. These achievements will contribute toaddressing the problem of illegal logging in this country.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 18
Improvement of forest law enforcement at the national level to promote forest governance in Guatemala
Project number:

TFL-PD 024/10 Rev.2 (M)Project country:

GuatemalaBudget:Total:

US$ 804.419

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 563.339

Government of Guatemala:US$ 200.880

IUCN:

US$ 40.200

Submitted by:

Government of Guatemala

Implementing agency: National Institute of Forests (INAB)
Duration:

36 months (plus 11 month no-cost extension)

Financed at:

TFLET 3 Cycle (2010)

Status:CompletedrdSummary:
The project aimed at improving effective implementation of forest management plans in Guatemala bystrengthening the capacity of forest institutions to conduct forest-law enforcement, and provision of better
services and instruments for the promotion of sustainable forest management. The project involved civil society,institutions and local governments in activities designed for reducing illegal logging, promoting compliance with
forest laws, and good governance.
Progress:
Project activities have commenced in February 2012, and 4 main outputs have been completed as follows:
Output 1: “The National Forest Service has been strengthened in the promotion and monitoring of sustainable
forest management system for law compliance and up-dating the legal framework”

Four forestry laws and regulations were updated: the national forest law, the forest enterprise monitoring
regulation, the regulation for forest products transport and legal sourcing, and regulation for family
consumption of timber. The national forest law was translated into 3 Mayan languages.
With the entry into force of the regulations on ‘forest enterprise monitoring’ and on ‘forest products
transport and legal sourcing’ in February 2014, an online registry for forest enterprises became
mandatory through the ‘Electronic Forest Enterprises Information System’ (Sistema Electrónico deInformación de Empresas forestales –SEINEF– http://seinef.inab.gob.gt/). SEINFE is an output of
another project under the TMT thematic programme, for further information, please refer to summary of
project TMT-PD 004/11 Rev.2 (M).
INAB capacity was strengthened with 41 trainers in forest extension, more than 60 training workshops on
geographical information systems (GIS), forest inventories, criteria and indicators (C&I), forest
management and forest incentives. According to INAB’s Human resources manager such training
represents the biggest investment ever done in personnel for the institution.

Output 2: “Community and institutional participation mechanisms generated to promote forest governance”
Interinstitutional round tables to combat illegal logging have been established throughout the country.
As part of inter-institutional coordination activities, and largely thanks to SEINEF monitoring activities –road inspection of timber consignments and monitoring visits to forest enterprises– are constantly carriedout and have smoother operations and improved transparency.

Output 3: “Information and experiences on sustainable forest management are available to society”The documents “Guidelines for the management of communal forest” and “Guidelines for conflict
resolution” were published. The first document was also translated into 3 Mayan languages.
The project has produced a good set of outreach materials, including banners, posters, radio spots andvideos. Topics include combat against illegal logging, SFM, positive impacts of SFM, negative impacts of

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 19
illegal logging, hardcopies of the forest law and approved regulations, and other documents generated
through the project. Two videos were produced (positive impacts of SFM and negative impacts of illegal
logging). In addition a national award was established to recognize every two years forest stakeholders
who implement good practices of forest management. Most outreach materials and printed documents
are available from ITTO’s project search at http://www.itto.int/project_search/.
Output 4: “Improved availability of information on forest practices and their impact”Through SEINEF data is collected in a reliable and standardized manner at critical points in the
production chain, such as records of entries into companies’ stock inventories; yield levels; diversity of
products and species; and records of inventory exits, thus facilitating the oversight of the forest sector
and increasing its efficiency and transparency.
Information on forest cover, forest incentives, national forest registry and monitoring of management
plans has been made publicly available through an online Geographical Information System (GIS) portal
called ‘SEGEFOR’ at http://geoportal.inab.gob.gt/. SEGEFOR is an output of another project under the
TMT thematic programme, for further information, please refer to summary of project TMT-PD 004/11
Rev.2 (M).

The systems and tools foreseen in the project will be incorporated into SIFGUA (National Forest Information
System of Guatemala available at www.sifgua.org.gt. SIFGUA is the direct output of a former ITTO financed
project PD340/05 Rev.2 (M). Current expansion of SIFGUA is on-going under another ITTO project, TMT-PD
004/11 Rev.2 (M), thus linking the two projects.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
As for project sustainability, the outputs achieved by the project as of today and the existing inter-institutional
coordination are ensuring project sustainability, as these facilitate forest law enforcement not only from the pointof view of the authorities who now has monitoring mechanisms in place to promote legal practices; but also fromthe point of view of forest owners and enterprises involved in harvesting, transportation and processing of timber,
who now are benefiting from systems that automate forest-related processes, minimize response times,
standardize forms, clarify procedures, avoid data duplication, minimize human error, limit officers’ discretionary
powers and bureaucracy, and meet the deadlines established by law to process their requests and applications.
SEINEF outcomes: as of January 2015, 1814 enterprises were registered with INAB, of which 1440 (nearly 80%)
were already using SEINEF. Collectively, these enterprises reported an initial stock volume of timber of 341 240
3m to SEINEF. By the end of 2014, this figure had increased with the inclusion of timber from natural forests33
outside protected areas (169 026 m ) and within protected areas (59 365 m ), while plantation timber amounted to333351 820 m and imports were 59 365 m . Local company-to-company transactions amounted to 395 815 m , of3
which 343 139 m was handled through SEINEF’s electronic company bill of transport system, accounting for
86.7% of total transactions.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 20Development of a program to strengthen the traceability of legally sourced forest products in Guatemala
Project number:

TFL-PPD 040/13 Rev.2 (M)Project country:

GuatemalaBudget:Total:

US$ 94,350

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 74,586

INAB

US$ 19,764

Submitted by:

Government of Guatemala

Implementing agency: National Institute of Forests - INAB
Duration:

11 months

Financed at:

5 TFLET Cycle (2013)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:3

It is estimated that more than 95% of forest product flows in Guatemala, or approximately 28.6 million m out of3
the 30.7 million m harvested in 2006, are extracted out of the control of the government (URL, IARNA, 2009:
Integrated Forest Accounting). The lack of information on the domestic market for forest products is widespreadand leads to a lack of transparency. The domestic market for forest products is not very developed and thegeneral public has a limited knowledge of timber uses, which is reflected in low product quality and a lack of
coordination in the secondary processing industry (FAO, 2003: Forest Sector Trends to 2020). This pre-project is
expected to achieve the following objectives:

Improve the traceability and legality of forest products from Guatemalan forests;
Analyze the traceability and legality conditions of forest products in Guatemala and develop a project
proposal to establish effective monitoring and control mechanisms.

Progress:
Activities commenced in November 2014 following signature of the pre-project agreement. The pre-project was
expected to be completed by the end of 2015 but a 6 month no-cost extension was requested and approved in
March 2016. All disbursements of pre-project funds had been made by the end of 2015 so the pre-project is notstimpacted by the loss of ITTO funds that was brought to Council’s attention at its 51 Session.
The pre-project consultant selection process was completed and work on activities under Output 1 commenced
by the end of 2014. The project team was constituted and a stakeholder consultation meeting took place in early2015 under the auspices of CONESFORGUA (the agency implementing the project) to ensure different actors knew
their roles in the project. A cooperation agreement was signed between INAB (the government forestry agency) and
CONESFORGUA. The study of the local forest products market was completed in early 2015 by a consultant in
consultation with INAB, major industry representatives and other stakeholders. A second study on the traceability offorest products (market chain, socio-economic impact, route and product flow in three priority regions) was also
completed in early 2015. The main outputs of this study included identification of the ten forest products with thelargest trade volumes in the three areas and determination of the variables to be measured for each of the main
products (volume; type of enterprise; origin of the primary material entering the enterprise; destination (ofproducts); and possible supply routes). A third study of the most critical deforestation areas (defined as >25% lossof forest cover), including analysis of population pressure and other proximate causes, was completed in mid-2015.
This study also assessed the vulnerability of local populations living near these critical deforestation areas. A fourth
study assessed the costs of legal compliance in the forest sector (including costs of legal wood, management,
extraction, transport, etc.) and compared these with costs of illegal forest operations. This study also assessed theimpacts of the costs of legal compliance on vulnerable communities identified in the deforestation study. Finally, a
project proposal to implement improved legal controls and monitoring in Guatemala’s forests has been prepared andshared with relevant stakeholders The final reports of these studies have been submitted to CONESFORGUA andthe pre-project completion report is in preparation. It should be submitted to the ITTO Secretariat together with thend
new project proposal before the 52 Session of the ITTC. The most recent progress report is available on request

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 21ndfrom the Secretariat (Spanish only). If the final report and audited financial statements are received prior to the 52
Session of the ITTC and deemed acceptable by the ITTO Secretariat, this pre-project will be considered complete.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:

1,543 sites within communities in areas with the greatest loss of forest (fronts/foci of deforestation) were identified
by the pre-project studies. Of these, 246 are located in deforestation fronts in a condition of medium to very highrisk and 696 are located in pockets of deforestation that are in a hazardous condition. The pre-project was able toidentify 43 municipalities in which deforestation is concentrated “vulnerable communities”. 15 of thesemunicipalities were identified with forests primarily supplying wood to the industrial centers of Guatemala,Chimaltenango and San Agustin Acasaguastlán, However, in the municipalities of Chimaltenango, Guatemala
and Antigua Guatemala there are no industries registered as sourcing products from these municipalities.
Therefore, there may be issues of traceability and legal origin for wood from these municipalities.
The pre-project found that costs of forestry legality/traceability place a very high pressure on the profitability ofsmall scale producers. Therefore, it is necessary to develop programs of technical and legal assistance to thesesmall scale producers who will otherwise be unlikely to embrace legality/traceability systems. Within access costs
to legality, fixed costs represent up to 85 percent at a production level of 16 m3 or less (consistent with manysmall-scale production levels) but only 45 percent at a production level of 150m3 or greater in the same area.
This problem may be partially overcome by encouraging small-scale producers to group together to meet thecosts of legality and traceability.
The comparative analysis of maize production versus forest production showed that the income derived from
logging is much higher, but few peasants have access to finance to purchase equipment and undertake othermeasures required to operate legally. It is necessary to develop access to credit to finance operations
management and sustainable forest management.
The results of the pre-project show that stricter forest law enforcement in vulnerable communities tends to affectthe livelihoods of subsistence small-holders from exploitation of forests. This, in turn, can cause socioenvironmental conflicts in these communities. The project developed under this pre-project will seek to address
the issues of access to finance, training and environmental awareness in vulnerable communities.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 22
Improving forest product monitoring and efficiency through the development of a program to enhance
the performance of the primary forest processing industry
Project number:

TFL-PPD 045/13 Rev. 2 (M)Project country:

GuatemalaBudget:Total:

US$ 87,030

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 66,942

INAB

US$ 20,088

Submitted by:

Government of Guatemala

Implementing agency: National Institute of Forests - INAB
Duration:

8 months

Financed at:

6 TFLET Cycle (2013)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
In Guatemala, it is widely recognized that illegal activities in the forest sector lead to significant loss not only forthe sector but also for Guatemalan society as a whole. Uncontrolled harvesting of firewood and timber is one of
the main causes of the reduction in forest resource volumes. In order to improve forest industry efficiency, skilled
personnel is also needed to develop efficient production lines for existing and innovative products, to conduct
studies on yield, timelines and flows, to optimize processing techniques based on optimal wood cutting and feed
speeds, and to develop work programs. The pre-project is expected to achieve the following objectives:Contribute to improving forest product monitoring and efficiency and enhancing sustainable forest
management in Guatemala.
Provide a standardized methodology to establish primary sawmilling yield levels in the processing ofmajor forest species in Guatemala so as to develop a project proposal aimed at improving primarysawmilling monitoring and control and enhancing processing efficiency and legal marketing of timber.

Progress:th

The pre-project has been approved under the 6 TFLET Cycle (2013). The project agreement has been signed
and the inception report has been received by the Secretariat in September 2014. The consultant firm to conduct
the study and develop the technical manual has been identified.
The following project activities have been carried out:







Information from the tracking systems used by INAB has been utilized to determine relevant legal andtechnical parameter to be considered for the estimation of efficiency in the forest industries.
The methodology has been validated with the forest industries in the four selected regions of Guatemala
and with governmental representatives in each region in charge of the legal aspects of marketing offorest products.
In this way a series of observations was obtained regarding the implementation of the methodology to beconsidered for developing the manual and the analysis of information for the study.
Visits have been made to selected forest industries together with staff of the National Institute of Forestsin each region to verify the correct application of the methodology designed.
It has obtained a performance study of primary processing in the forest industry in Guatemala, focusing
on four priority areas. In this study the performance of the industries is identified, the technology used for
different processes and production indicators are measured.
It has also obtained a draft guide for the development of performance studies of primary processing in
the forest industry in Guatemala which is expected to allow standardize the methodology between the
different actors in the forestry sector and improve governance.

The first and final installments of funds of US$53,770 were made in October 2014 and November 2015
respectively. There is no balance of funds for this project. The Executing Agency is preparing the completion

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 23
report, technical reports and final audit report. In the event that the EA will timely submit those reports and are
deemed satisfactory before the 52th ITTC, this project may be declared completed.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
A database with information obtained has been created and is currently analyzed and the information from thetracking systems used by INAB has been utilized to determine relevant legal and technical parameter.
Both the methodology and the results of the performance study of primary processing in the forest industry havebeen validated and socialized with various stakeholders in priority poles, including industries that wereparticipants in the study, as entities of public institutions related to the forestry sector.
The guide for the development of performance studies of primary processing in the forest industry in Guatemala
also has been socialized and validated in the areas prioritized by the study, however, the involvement has beenboth, representatives from other regions have applied for joining the socialization and validation of the manual.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 24
Strengthening the Capacity of Local Institutions to Sustainably Manage Community Forestry in Sanggau
for Improving Livelihood
Project number:

TFL-PD 032/13 Rev. 2 (M)Project country:

Indonesia

Budget:Total:

US$ 511,730

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 456,680

Government of Indonesia

US$ 55,050

Submitted by:

Government of Indonesia

Implementing agency: Center for Climate Change and Policy Research, Forestry Research andDevelopment Agency (FORDA)
Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

6 TFLET Cycle (2013)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
Institutional strengthening of Community Forestry is a program dedicated to empower communities who are livingin the surroundings of forest areas. The scheme is aimed at strengthening community institutions. In the Sanggau
district, West Kalimantan, three units of Community Forestry attained permits (IUPHKm) from the District Leader
allowing communities to utilize state forest areas under the production forest function and covering 3,790
hectares, under the condition of applying sustainable forest management principles. The program progress ishowever slow and only 5% of the total target area have been met, which delays the HKm development program inIndonesia. The project is expected to facilitate the empowerment of local communities in the context ofsustainable community forestry management. Main project beneficiaries will be forest communities and otherforest dependent people through improved capacity of community organizations to manage community forests in
Sanggau, which is expected to accelerate the development of HKm program implementation in Indonesia. The
project will contribute to reduced rural poverty, better access to forest resources, increased employment andincome for forest communities, less social conflict and improved social capital among forest communities.
Progress:
The First PSC Meeting was held on 19 January 2015. Under Activity 3.1. the regulations guiding theimplementation of the program of community forestry, which are often poorly understood by local governments,
were disseminated at the Head Office of District Government Sanggau (Kantor Bupati). A meeting on theimportant role of community forestry for the development of the district was organized on the 23 February 2015
chaired by the Head of the District to brief 55 participants including government staff, local NGOs, village leaders
and the community forestry group of IUPHKm. Under activity 3.2.2 the first workshop to strengthen the capacity of
local governments in facilitating the implementation of HKm at Sanggau was conducted on 30 March 2015. The
workshop was attended by 25 participants including representatives from the neighbouring Sekadau district. All
participants had responsibility for community development, including representatives from the Department ofIndustry and Trade, village governance, agriculture, forestry and fisheries sector as well as the handicraft
promotion office. Representatives from forest farmer groups were invited to facilitate discussions with the local
government. Under activity 3.3.1 information was collected on existing regulation schemes for Community
Forestry in Indonesia. Each has its own regulations issued by the Ministry of Forestry. Other schemes related tocommunity development are promoted by other ministries, such as the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry ofSocial Affairs or the Ministry of Women Affairs. Field information was collected through discussions with HKm
right holders and other key informants. Under 1.3.2 four training activities were conducted for community groups.
The 2nd PSC meeting was organized on January 2016 which approved the Project extension up to four months
period to finalize Project activities without any additional funding from ITTO. Prior the PSC meeting, a monitoring
visit was made by the Project Manager of ITTO who traveled to the project site and observed it progress throughconsultation with various parties. During the visit, it was acknowledged that strong demand being posed to extend
Project assistantship into the neighboring district of Sekadau. Community forestry of HKm Merabun in that district
has lots of potency to offer but lack of information and access to trade their products. Among the products being

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 25
presented include bamboo and rattans handicrafts, also the potency of mushrooms produced in that area which
serves as valuable menu for European dining.
On Activity 1.1: The development of local community institutions in designing forest village based eco-tourism.
The need to develop forest village based ecotourism has already been acknowledged during the first year of
project implementation. A group from community forestry of HKm members at village Mobui being formed andbeing strengthen its capacity to design and to develop the potency of waterfall named Riam Jhito as main
destination for forest village based tourism. On April 2016, the Project facilitates meetings and discussions for ateam of forest village based tourism, pengelola desa wisata among others to clarify on regulation, landuses, andbenefit sharing also potential risks incur from the developing eco-tourism in the region. The Project also facilitatedselected members of the team to participate in a tourism course organized by office of tourism at Sanggau
district. The discussions include government authorities at the village and sub-district, also villagers at theneighboring area of desa Terusan, and local Paroki or Church entity. The discussions is meant to agree on
keeping transparency and better communication on planning to develop Riam Jito waterfall as eco-tourism
destination and the planning to use virgin forests at the neighborhood as sacred or holly place for the local Paroki.
On Activity 1.2: The development of local community institutions in improving capacity of entrepreneurships
through various trainings and business gatherings. The important of entrepreneurship has been acknowledges intrade of products from community forestry. Various trainings and business gatherings being organized by the
Project involving not only community members of HKm but also they involves staffs of government agency and its
affiliation including semi-government organization of Dekranasda, a women group at the district and village levels.
Among the trainings include introduction about silk worm and cultivation of mulberry plants that had been
conducted during the months January up to March taking the advantage of rainy season. Plantation of mulberry
being established at several places of Sanggau and Tukun, Langka and Mobui villages to provide opportunities
for expanding income sources particularly for women group member of HKm. Assistantships from forestry R&D at
Bogor were provided from cultivation up to provision of information about potential trade of mulberry leaves fordrinking, food and vegetables up to the potency of silk clothing. Visit to the silk house at Bogor was arranged by
the Project to get clear understanding on silk work production activities.
To improve capacity in entrepreneurship, collaboration with the Ministry of Industry was established in March
2016 through the signing of MOU between the DG Small-scale Industry with the DG FORDA of Forestry toestablish a self- sufficient industrial village of Desa Industri Mandiri/DIM by using community forestry at Sanggau
as the basis. The collaboration was manifested at the selection of Sanggau as among 12 members of DIM
network across the country, which also represent for Kalimantan. Sets of equipment to produce organic fertilizer
worth about USD 20,000 to be granted by the Ministry of Industry to the group of community forestry at Sanggau
and it is expected to operate at the village Mobui by end of August 2016. The Projects will facilitate trainings tooperate the equipment and the production of organic fertilizer called pupuk organic cair (POC/liquid organic
fertilizer). The new technology will improve land productivity which at this moment being polluted with chemicalfertilizer. It will save the community with cost for attaining fertilizer, it will stimulates organic farming with cattle andfish growing to provide income sources needed other than from harvesting timber from the forests.
On Activity 1.3: The development of local community institutions in formulation of operational plan of forest
management under the IUPHKm. An operational plan for the right holders of IUPHKm shall be developed every
year as among the requirements demanded by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. The Project facilitates
the five groups of community forestry at Sanggau to formulate their planning in accordance to the proceduressets by the government. The planning includes among others activities to conduct forest protection, to rehabilitate
degraded forests and land, to utilize forest products.
On Activity 2.3: The improvement on information and access of local community to attain micro credits orfinancing. After series of trainings and business gatherings during the first year of activities, groups of women who
involve in handicraft-making received the support from the Provincial Bank of Bank Daerah Kalimantan Barat.
The Bank granted its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to help the six groups of women handicrafts improvetheir capital.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:

The project has succeeded in developing a mutual trust between the local government of Sanggau
District and its local communities in developing their community forests and also succeeded to bring in abank and the Ministry of Industry to grant the women group and local communities with funding andequipment for producing fertilizer; andThe project team has shown excellent communication skills that enable the stakeholders to actively
participate in the project implementation.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 26
Strengthening the governance of community forest through improved capacity to adequately perform
timber administration in Java and Nusa Tenggara region in Indonesia
Project number:

TFL-PD 033/13 Rev. 2 (M)Project country:

Indonesia

Budget:Total:

US$ 545,230

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 495,880

Government of Indonesia

US$ 49,350

Submitted by:

Government of Indonesia

Implementing agency: Directorate of Forest Revenues and Forest Product Distribution, Ministry ofForestry
Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

6 TFLET Cycle (2013)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
The role of timber produced from community forests is increasingly important due mainly to the dwindling supply
of wood from natural forests. The Ministry of Forestry is strengthening forest governance and reducing leakage ofstate tax revenues through the issuance of the Ministerial Decree number No 30/Menhut-II/2012 (June 2012)
outlining a timber administration system from community forestry to primary industry. It regulates the usage of
documents of origin (Surat Keterangan Asal Usul, SKAU) as a tracking system to ensure timber legality. The spiritof these regulations is to simplify the administrative requirements for wood originating from community forests bymaking village heads eligible to issue transport documents, which also legalize the harvested timber. The projectwill improve the administration of timber produced from community forest in the Java and Nusa Tenggara
regions. The expected outputs of the project are: 1) Ministerial Regulation (Permenhut) No. 30/Menhut-II/2012 isproperly implemented; 2) Support of beneficiaries (land owners/farmers, traders and users of timber produced,
local government) by timber administration increased. The effective implementation of the new regulation will help
to sustain the forest while at the same time increase collection of forest revenues. The long-term goal of the
project intervention is to improve local economies of forest dependent communities in Java and Nusa Tenggara
and to reduce illegal logging and illegal timber in Indonesia.
Progress:
Under Activity 1.2 the Ministerial Regulation no. P 30/Menhut-II/2012 was reviewed in form of FGD (Focus Group
Discussion), involving 134 participants from 19 districts. Activities 1.1., 1.2 and activities 1.3 were implemented
behind the schedule. Activities 1.3 has been carried out partially and activity 2.3 will be carried out in year two due
to revisions and changes in Ministry Regulation number P. 30/Menhut-II/2012, which will impact the activities tobe undertaken. The regulation concerning the use of certificates of origin (SKAU) for transportation of timber
forest products originating from forest right/privately owned were amended to regulation P. 21/Menhut-2015. The
amendments and changes require additional dissemination at the village level and adjustments to the materials
produced. Target audiences for the capacity building may have to be adjusted.
During the reporting period, project have conducted the second Project Steering Committee meeting on 18
January 2016 in Jakarta, followed a visit to West Sumatra province from to see the progress and impact of the
training that was carried out in Padang, West Sumatra province on November 2015. The training received
positive response from the Head of the Province’s Head of Forestry Service which help officers in charge oftimber trade administration in performing their duties.
On Output 2: Improved support by beneficiaries of timber administration, the activities that have been
carried out were:

Activity 2.1. To identify and Apply incentives for main beneficiaries to support timber administrationand to identify and apply penalties for administrative incompliance
Activity 2.2. To conduct evaluation of the implementation of regulation as a feedback to make theITTC(LII)/8
Page 27regulation effectively operational
Activity 2.3. To conduct training workshop for beneficiaries in implementing Permenhut 30/MenhutII/2012 (and its revision).

Activities of 2.1 and 2.2 included conducting Focused Discussion Group (FGD) to review and analyze the
obstacle in implementing the regulation number P.30/2012 and P. 21/2015 (the revised version); and to Review
the content and substance of the changes of Regulation 30/2012 to be Ministerial Regulation No. P21/2015.
Three FGD has been carried out inter alia: in Jambi province on March 2016, in Medan, North Sumatra Province
on April 2016 and Semarang, Central Java on May 2016 to discuss result of activity 2.2. Each FGD was attended
by at least 30 participants. The participants consist of Government at provincial level, district, and from Forest
community owner.
On Activity 2.3, as requested by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, there were additional three training
activities organized on mastering online system for wood/timber administration namely SIPUHH online. The
system was developed by the Directorate General of Sustainable Production Forest Management and specificallydesigned to help small scale industries increase their productivity.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
Under Activity 1.1 the project has produced practical manuals of Ministerial Regulation No. P. 30/Menhut-II/2012
concerning wood administration of timber harvested from community forestry land in form of posters, a video, afilm and a practical guideline for the dissemination. Dissemination was carried out three times in two provinces(West and Central Java) involving 113 participants from 35 districts. Under Activity 1.3 a first training on skills to
implement Ministerial Regulation No. P. 30/Menhut-II/2012 was provided to 30 village heads from 6 districts. The
training objective was to improve local capacity in the implementation of timber administration system from private
land, including inter alia policy and regulations on timber measurement, identification of timber species timber
grading and timber administration. Under Activity 2.1 and 2.2 the project has produced a draft revised versionof Ministry Regulation No. 21/2015 awaiting for the Minister’s approval. Under Activity 2.3 three additional
training activities were organized.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 28
Strengthening of ANAM’s management capacity to reduce illegal logging and trade in the eastern regionof Panama (Bayano and Darien) through monitoring and control mechanisms
Project number:

TFL-PD 044/13 Rev.2 (M)Project country:

PanamaBudget:Total:

US$ 730,309

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 412,556

WWF Panama

US$ 132,403

ANAM

US$ 185,350

Submitted by:

Government of Panama

Implementing agency: WWF Panama
Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

6 TFLET Cycle (2013)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
The aim of this project is to follow up on one of the outputs of the ITTO-financed project PD 405/06 Rev.3 (F):“Extending the area under sustainable forest management in the forest lands of the Emberá-Wounaan Comarca,
Darien, Panama”, which conducted an analysis and described the institutional, administrative and socio-economic
factors leading to illegal logging in the Eastern Region of Panama (Bayano and Darien) and produced aframework document on guidelines and strategies which require immediate institutional action to arrest
incremental forest degradation caused by illegal logging practices and other unsustainable activities. Therefore,
the main purpose of this project is to contribute to the prevention and control of illegal logging and trade in the
Eastern Region of Panama (Bayano and Darien) by strengthening ANAM’s capacity to ensure efficient andeffective forest sector management and increased community awareness on forest degradation as a result ofillegal logging and related illegal trade in forest products. The project is also complementary to ITTO project‘Tropical Forest Governance in the Region of Darien, Panama’ PD 602/11 Rev.3 (F), which was approved at theth
49 ITTC and will commence in 2014.
Progress:th

The project has been approved under the 6 TFLET Cycle (2013). Following the approval and financing, theproject has experienced a significant delay in signing the project agreement due to the revision and finalization ofproject document and the changes of the responsible ministry of Panama. The project agreement regulating theimplementation of the project was finally signed in January 2016 and after the approval of the inception report, thefirst instalment of funds was made in April 2016 which marked the official start of the implementation of thisproject.
Since its inception, the project has achieved significant results in capacity assessment and development of astrategic plan for the Directorate forest (DIFOR) created in the Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente), in thedesign of the Traceability System and forest Control, and continuity of the communications strategy initiated by
the project PD 602/11 R3 (F) “Forest governance in tropical forests of the Darien region, Panama,”
The first instalment of funds made in April 2016 was US$113,354. The other three planned instalments of fundsof US$220,000 according to the project agreement are pending.
The suspension of ITTO funding had caused delays in the implementation of project activities, the Executing
Agency had to prioritize the use of funds to cover the contract for the design and Forestry Traceability System
Control. However, after some adjustments to the workplan, in coordination with the Ministry of Environment(MiAmbiente), the EA managed to get support from other offices of WWF and the FAO FLEGT Programme tocontinue the implementation of the planned activities. However, it is expected that after the 52th ITTC, the ITTO
funding could be normalized and reactivated so as not to jeopardize the achievement of results and objectives ofthe project.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 29
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
Despite the delay of inception, the implementation of this project, particularly the positive progress in the design
and implementation of Traceability System and Forest Control, further attracted the interest of MiAmbiente andother sectors and players.
The communications strategy that is being developed is contributing to a positive debate on the needs of thesector, stressing the need for incentives to promote forest management and responsible procurement. The role ofcivil society and consumers as a powerful market force which begets change, can be enhanced through thiscommunication strategy.
However, the suspension of ITTO funding had serious impact on project implementation, though the EA is
seeking support from other sources. Since it’s at the early stage, the future implementation of this project will bebased on the resume of ITTO funding.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 30
Chain of Custody Verification for Timber Processors in Papua New Guinea
Project number:

TFL-SPD 043/13 Rev. 1 (M)Project country:

Papua New Guinea

Budget:Total:

US$ 163,160

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 147,280

PNGFIA

US$ 15,880

Submitted by:

Government of Papua New Guinea

Implementing agency: Papua New Guinea Forest Industries Association (PNGFIA)
Duration:

12 months

Financed at:

6 TFLET Cycle (2013)

Status:Inception Phaseth

Summary:
The project will develop and pilot a Chain of Custody (CoC) system based on the international standard managed
by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), customised for use by PNG timber
processors. This customised standard will facilitate access to international markets for PNG timber processors.
The project will build on the outputs of ITTO project PD 449/07 Rev.2 (M) (“Enhancing Forest Law Enforcement in
PNG”). PD 449/07 Rev.2 (M) has established a generic legality standard for PNG; however this standard does notincorporate a Chain of Custody component. The project will provide a CoC component, such that together the
outputs of the two projects will provide PNG timber companies with the tools needed to meet regulatory
requirements of key international export markets.
Progress:th

The project has been approved under the 6 TFLET Cycle (2013). The project agreement has been signed in
October 2014 and the project is still in the inception phase no funds have been disbursed to the EA yet.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
Nothing yet to reportITTC(LII)/8
Page 31
REDDES
Monitoring deforestation, logging and land use change in the Pan Amazonian Forest, PANAMAZON II
Project number:

RED-PD 029/09 Rev.1 (F)Project country:

PanAmazonian

Budget:Total:

US$ 6,262,784

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 1,124,784

ACTO Contribution:

US$ 1,389,600

ACTO Member Countries:

US$ 3,748,400

Submitted by:

Government of Brazil

Implementing
agency:Amazon Cooperation Treaty Agency (ACTO)

Duration:

48 months

Financed at:

REDDES 2 Cycle (2009)

Status:Ongoingnd

Summary:
The project will address constrains that are limiting the use of the Indicator of the Forest Cover by implementing
national monitoring systems as a key element so as to increase the governance in the Amazon. In order tofacilitate countries interaction and integrated action in boundary zones the project will strengthen the dialogue andcoordination platforms linked to the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO). The project is divided inthree components:

Coordination of participatory processes for the development of Forest Cover National Monitoring
Systems;
Implementation of Forest Cover National Monitoring Systems; andStrengthening of the existing platforms for regional dialogue and coordination on forest management,with focus on forest cover monitoring with the possibility to include other criteria and indicators forsustainable forest management.

The systems will make use of the technology platform developed by the Government of Brazil and themethodology already adopted in this country will be considered for the implementation of the National Systems.
Furthermore, the project will contribute to the improvement of knowledge in the sector, to share new technologies,
to prioritize lines of action for the regional cooperation and to share experiences on the enforcement of forest
laws.
Progress:
The installation of the Observation Rooms (ORs) in each country has been completed and the Observation
Rooms are operational. The preparation and validation of national plans to monitor forest cover is in progress.
The capacity building components (training courses) have been completed, while the technical assistanceprovided to system users is a permanent activity. The monitoring of regional activities and promotion of
information exchange is a permanent activity initialized and supported by the project. The production of regional
deforestation maps is ongoing with input from the participating countries, depending on availability of images. At
the national level countries are evaluating the causes of deforestation and forest degradation. With the approvalof the additional resources from the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), for thecontinuation of the project activities initialized under this project, the operation of the established national
observation rooms has become a permanent activity. That funding also provides for adequate regional forums fortechnical discussions among technical staff of the ORs and regular ‘Regional Encounters’ are held. The Project
Regional Coordination Unit, together with the national coordination agencies is permanently coordinating andsupporting regional discussions. The pending financial audits for 2014 and 2015 have been received andapproved. The continuation of the project is affected by the impairment of ITTO funds.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 32
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
In May 2013, the Board of the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), through the
Amazon Fund approved an amount of Brazilian Reais R$ 23 million or approximately US$ 11.8 million to ACTO to
ensure the continuation and expansion of the activities initialized under RED-PD 029/09 Rev.1 (F). Over a five
year period, the new ACTO project on ‘Monitoring of forest cover in the Amazon Region’ will continue thestructuring and implementation of the established observation rooms, provide access to forest cover monitoring
technology, support the development of national monitoring plans, and foster the improvement, harmonizationand standardization of institutional capacities to assess land use changes in the participating countries.
Continuing the efforts under RED-PD 029/09 Rev.1 (F) and utilizing the infrastructure established under the ITTO
project, it will support regional cooperation to combat illegal logging and exchange of experiences related to
public policy instruments to reduce deforestation. The expected project results are a direct contribution to theobjectives of the UN-REDD programme through improved control of deforestation and forest degradation, andthrough the strengthening of monitoring systems and provision of data from all participating countries. The
importance of RED-PD 029/09 Rev 1 (F) and is impact on the forest conservation on the Amazon Region has
been highlighted by the Governments of Germany and the Netherlands to the extent that the results of its
technical cooperation with ACTO in the implementation of the Regional Project to Monitoring Deforestationencouraged the German Technical Cooperation GIZ to conduct, with technical input from INPE, a regional
meeting about monitoring deforestation where similar experiences, to ACTO´s in the Amazon region, like othersin Latin America, Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe were shared and discussed (INPE-PRA/GIZ International
Workshop, Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil, 31 Oct – 1 Nov 2013). The importance and relevance of the projectand its continuation under BNDES/ACTO has also been highlighted by the meeting of the ACTO Foreign
Relations Ministers (e.g. in Ecuador, May 2013).

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 33
Developing REDD+ES in the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest
Project number:

RED-SPD 058/11 Rev.2 (F)Project country:

BrazilBudget:Total:

US$ 164,610

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 142,110

Instituto BioAtlantica (IBio)

US$

Fibria, Brazil

US$ 18,750

Submitted by:

Government of Brazil

Implementing
agency:Instituto Terra

Duration:

12 months

Financed at:

REDDES 3 Cycle (2011)

Status:Pending agreement

3,750

rd

Summary:
Due to its exceptional biological diversity, the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest is among the five top priority
conservation areas in the world. The biome hosts 80% of the Brazilian GNP and is home to more than 110 million
people (or 60% of the Brazilian population), who depend on key environmental services produced by forests, suchas fresh water, clean air, and climate stability. Due to deforestation activities, only 7% of the Atlantic Forest
original vegetation is left. To further protect and recover the forest, additional incentives and financial resources,
including sales of carbon credits, must be identified and channeled to landowners and local communities. REDD+
is a promising mechanism with the potential to assist the conservation and recovery of forests, howeverrequirements for the development of on-the-ground projects are very technical and complex. This proposal aims
to identify the potential of using the REDD+ mechanism to help restore and preserve the Atlantic Forest.
Progress:rd

The project has been approved under the REDDES 3 Cycle (2011). The project has been facing difficulties as
the key collaborating agency had unexpectedly declined to participate in the project. Instituto Terra has now been
identified and agreed as Executing Agency for the project and the project agreement has been prepared andsigned by the Executing Agency and the Brazilian Government in April 2016, however, due to the impairment of
ITTO funds, the project agreement could not be countersigned by ITTO.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
Nothing yet to reportITTC(LII)/8
Page 34
Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation through Collaborative Managementwith Local Communities
Project number:

RED-PD 026/09 Rev.1 (F)Project country:

Ghana

Budget:Total:

US$ 760,408

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 658,716

Government of Ghana

US$ 101,692

Submitted by:

Government of Ghana

Implementing
agency:Forestry Research Institute of Ghana (FORIG)

Duration:

48 months

Financed at:

REDDES 2 Cycle (2009)

Status:CompletedndSummary:
The project aims to contribute to sustainable management and conservation of Ankasa Conservation area toimprove the provision of environmental services and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Ankasa
Conservation area incorporates the Nini-Suhien National Park and the Ankasa Resource Reserve and isconsidered as the most biologically diverse forest ecosystem in Ghana. The project specifically intends to develop
and implement participatory, good governance and management system for the Ankasa conservation area,
determine the financial value of the environmental services as well as methods for measurement, assessment
reporting and verification (MARV) for forest carbon. The project will be participatory and thus will build on a highlevel community involvement and capacity building.
Progress:a) Administrative aspects:
The Project Agreement regulating the implementation of the project was duly signed on 05 April 2010. An
acceptable Inception Report and related first Yearly Plan of Operation were submitted on 15 April 2010. The
Project implementation began with the disbursement of the first installment of TP funds in April 2010. The firstproject extension was granted until April 2015 and a second one until September 2015 in order to allow thecompletion of all activities. However, for this 48-month project, as an acceptable version of the project completion
report was received in August 2016, the project operation period had lasted 76 months instead of 48 initiallydesigned by the implementing agency (FORIG). Upon receipt of an acceptable final financial audit report, thisproject could be documented for the completion and closure procedures.
b) Technical aspects:
The main project outcomes, in relation to the expected outputs and associated activities, could be summarized asfollows:

Awareness and knowledge on REDD at local level had been developed through appropriate approaches
involving the organization of workshops and dissemination of information through community radio
broadcast, in English and vernacular language.
Participatory management involving Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs) had been
reinforced in ACA. It was noted that the committees responsible for theses CREMAs lacked thecapacities for management dealing with conservation, including the restoration and rehabilitation of thedegraded areas. Thus, the project contributed to build the capacities of CREMA committees establishedin the following nine (9) local communities: Amokwaw, Fia, Nungua-Cocoatown, Tweakor Navrongo,
Aiyinasi-Ayawora, Ohiamadwen-Fiasoro, Asomasi, Naptoma and New Adiembra.
Enhancement of biodiversity conservation had been achieved through regular field monitoring, in close
collaboration with local communities involved in the project implementation. Thus, the local communities
were trained in the collection of all relevant data on biodiversity resources. To facilitate the fieldITTC(LII)/8
Page 35









monitoring, a community-based forest monitoring unit had been established under each CREMA
structure.
Community participation in forest conservation, monitoring of illegal logging and forest encroachment had
been improved through the stakeholder consultation process leading to pro-active interactions with local
communities. The CREMAs were strengthened through appropriate training workshops, and provision oflogistics and incentives.
Governance and benefit sharing arrangements for REDD were developed, and REDD concept
mainstreamed within SFM activities. Equitable benefit sharing scheme/arrangements, as well as the
responsibilities of each relevant stakeholder, were identified for development through a stakeholder
consultation process. The capacity of the local communities on activities that contribute to SFM wasenhanced and measures taken to mainstream these activities in their land use practices, in ACA.
Verifiable methods for carbon accounting and monitoring were developed for the project target area
(ACA). In order to establish a verifiable methodology for carbon monitoring and accounting, the approach
involved the most up to date, but cost effective, GIS and remote sensing based REDD monitoring
methodologies. Field measurements were made using standard, but rigorously applied, forest sampling
methods to assess forest biomass/carbon stocks. Recommended allometric equations, suitable fordifferent parts of the project target area, were adjusted and used to estimate biomass stocks. Withoutcompromising on scientifically approved standards, the project adopted measures that made local
communities to play active role in carbon measurement and monitoring.
Baseline emissions and potential carbon credit under REDD project scenario were determined and the
project explored baseline approaches that reflect the local circumstances. The project used approaches
based on GIS modelling and remote sensing multi-resolution methods for mapping and qualitative
analysis of baseline scenarios, as well as the estimation of emissions and enhancement of carbon
stocks. GIS models that incorporate biophysical factors as well as socio-economic spatial information
were also explored by this project. Monitoring of forest cover change was done using satellite remotesensing for determining baseline deforestation rates against which future rates of change can be based.
Adequate validation and accuracy assessments were carried out to determine the levels of uncertainties
contained in the estimates. All these approaches were meant to provide improved spatially explicit
information on the location of carbon stocks in ACA.

Achievements, Impacts and lessons learned:
The main project achievements, impacts and lessons learned, in relation to the expected outputs and associatedactivities, could be summarized as follows:Nine abovementioned local communities have been selected and sensitized on the issues regarding thedeforestation and forest degradation in Ankasa Conservation Area (ACA), and most of them had been
implementing the best practices for the rehabilitation of degraded lands in ACA, and therefore
contributing to the biodiversity conservation;
These nine local communities had been involved in the registration of forest plantations and related trees
established by them for the rehabilitation of degraded lands in ACA. The registration process had been
undertaken in close collaboration with the Forest Services Division (FSD) of Ghana Forestry Commission
represented by the District Forest Manager that oversees the Ankasa Conservation Area (ACA). The
registration is the first and important step of the process which could lead to the tree ownership andbenefit sharing scheme/arrangements, for these nine local communities involved in the rehabilitation of
degraded lands in ACA;
In addition to technical reports (available in http://www.itto.int/project_search/), the results and findings ofthis project had been used to produce scientific papers presented in international meetings organized by
FAO in 2015, as well as posters shown in other international meetings.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 36
Rehabilitation of degraded forests for sustainable wood fuel production and climate change mitigation in
the forest-savanna transition zone of Ghana
Project number:

RED-SPD 077/12 Rev.1 (F)Project country:

Ghana

Budget:Total:

US$ 169,360

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 121,662

Government of Ghana:

US$ 47,698

Submitted by:

Government of Ghana

Implementing
agency:FORIG

Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

REDDES 4 Cycle (2012)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
The project aims at contributing to reduction in rural poverty and improved income and employment while
reducing deforestation and degradation and contributing to carbon sequestration in the forest savanna transitionzone of Ghana. This will be achieved through sensitizing and building the capacity of commercial charcoal andfirewood producers in the transition zone to plant and/or manage wood fuel plantations sustainably. Participatory
approaches will be employed at all stages of the project to ensure that stakeholder needs are adequately
incorporated in the choice and design of plantation regimes. Management plans will also be produced to guidecommunities for efficient utilization of wood fuel resources. The government of Ghana will benefit throughimproved resource base and sectoral information for policy decisions. Other benefits to be derived include
building up of the capacity of resource managers to support forest communities to sustainably utilize and manage
wood fuel resources and to reduce pressure on the natural forest estate.
Progress:
No progress report was submitted in August 2016 by the project Executing Agency (Forestry Research Institute of
Ghana (FORIG) which informed the Secretariat that the preparation of the completion report was under way
because all project activities have been completed in the field, as a contribution for reducing deforestation anddegradation and contributing to carbon sequestration in the forest savanna transition zone of Ghana.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned should be documented with the completion report under preparationby the Executing Agency (Forestry Research Institute of Ghana (FORIG) at the next Council (ITTC-53).

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 37
Advancing REDD+ in Ghana: preparation of REDD+ pilot schemes in off-reserve forests and agro-forests
Project number:

RED-PD 093/12 Rev.3 (F)Project country:

Ghana

Budget:Total:

US$ 366,954

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 297,205

Government of Ghana:

US$ 69,749

Submitted by:

Government of Ghana

Implementing
agency:Ghanaian National REDD+ Secretariat

Duration:

12 months

Financed at:

REDDES 4 Cycle (2012)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
The project is preparing a major support component to Ghana’s Readiness Preparation Proposal (RPP) and aims
at strengthening Ghana’s capacities to prevent and reduce deforestation and forest degradation and enhancing
carbon stocks (REDD+). The specific objective of the REDDES project is to lay out the ground work for thedevelopment or enhancement of off-reserve production systems under REDD+ schemes, in line with its efforts to
reduce GHG emissions in forests. The project is a preparatory step for an additional support component for the
implementation of Ghana’s R-PP and is mainly concerned with developing a number of analytical works and thedefinition of REDD+ pilots in off-reserve areas. It is also aimed at developing a framework to guide theimplementation of REDD+ from the national to the local level. This shall allow Ghana to take stock of existing
initiatives that have the potential to be considered under REDD+, as well as to concretely analyze promising
REDD+ activities, which will be an integral part of the RPP. The information produced through this project shallprepare the further implementation of agricultural and secondary forest production schemes that feature climate
smart practices.
Progress:
No progress report was submitted in August 2016 by the project Executing Agency (Ghanaian National REDD+
Secretariat) and Collaborating Agency (Forestry Research Institute of Ghana /FORIG) which informed theSecretariat that the preparation of the completion report was under way because all project activities have been
completed in the field, as a contribution for reducing deforestation and degradation and contributing to carbon
sequestration in the forest savanna transition zone of Ghana.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned should be documented with the completion report under preparationby the Executing Agency (Ghanaian National REDD+ Secretariat) and Collaborating Agency (Forestry ResearchInstitute of Ghana /FORIG) at the next Council (ITTC-53).

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 38
Strengthening of governance and sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems in Guatemala as aclimate change adaptation measure
Project number:

RED-SPD 079/12 Rev.1 (F)Project country:

GuatemalaBudget:Total:

US$ 215,223

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 146,751

INAB:

US$ 58,320

ARCAS:

US$ 10.152

Submitted by:

Government of Guatemala

Implementing
agency:INABDuration:

24 months

Financed at:

REDDES 4 Cycle (2012)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
The lack of actions aimed at mangrove forest protection and management has led to the loss and degradation ofmangrove ecosystems outside of protected areas; weak mangrove forest management and governance; foodinsecurity; and limited economic opportunities for the local communities. This project on mangrove forest
protection, restoration and conservation as a climate change adaptation measure will help address these
problems. It will produce increased knowledge about the dynamics and contribution of mangrove forests so as toimprove their management and rehabilitation and it will strengthen and consolidate a sustainable community
forest management model. At least 15 sites directly linked to the protection and management of mangrove
ecosystems in the seven prioritized departments will be actively promoting the restoration, management andspecial protection of at least 700 hectares of mangrove forests, with the effective participation of local partners. It
is expected that the development and systematization of the project experience will help strengthen andconsolidate the Mangrove Forest Regulations, which include agreed guidelines for the prioritization of mangrove
forests, and the management, restoration and conservation mechanisms to be implemented through the effective
participation of local and government stakeholders. Through improvement of mangrove forest management andrestoration, the project will create new economic opportunities and improved food security for the local
communities, while contributing to the conservation of mangrove ecosystems.
Progress:
Administrative Progress:
The Project Agreement regulating the implementation of the project was duly signed on 10 March 2013. The
Project Inception Report and the YPO have been received and approved by the ITTO Secretariat and the first
disbursement of funds was transferred to the Executing Agency on 1 August 2013 and project activities
commenced shortly after that. The second installment was executed in early February 2014, the third installment
in October 2014 and the fourth in July 2015, and all were based on the prior submission and approval of thecorresponding required 6-monthly progress report and updated OLMS reporting. The project was further granted
two extensions, one until December 2015 and another until the end of August 2016, in order to allow for the
successful completion of all activities, particularly as regards the adoption of the draft mangrove forest regulation
developed by the project.
Technical Progress:
In accordance with the project’s most recent progress report and the monthly highlights submitted through the
project on-line monitoring system, progress in project implementation can be summarized by major outputs asfollows:

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 39
Output 1: Mangrove Ecosystem Management and Conservation Program for the local communities with afocus on climate change adaptation.
Almost all activities required to achieve this output have been implemented, as follows:






4 pilot areas involving 13 communities were selected for the development and implementation ofcommunity forest management plans centering on mangrove forest conservation and management,these being: Blanca Cecilia, Manchon Guamuchal, Cayo Quemado and Mangales. All four sites currently
count with operational management plans focusing on mangrove forest rehabilitation, conservation,
protection and production;
The training modules on mangrove management and all related materials have been developed; andTraining workshops to raise awareness of the local communities on the use and conservation ofmangrove areas have been completed; andOther events continue to be carried out at the community level aimed at highlighting the significance ofpractices focused on improving local capacities for climate change adaptation.

Output 2: Conservation and management strategy for Guatemala's mangrove ecosystem with theeffective participation of key stakeholders.
5 activities out of 7 required to achieve this output have been completed, as follows:

A methodology was designed with the effective participation of both local and national stakeholder
groups for the establishment of a National Strategy for Mangrove Ecosystem Conservation, Management
and Restoration, and the strategy itself has been developed;
9, rather than the original 3, local roundtables have been established with the participation of key local
stakeholders to develop local actions focused on mangrove conservation, management and restoration
within the framework of the national strategy and also to review the draft mangrove forest regulation; andThe activity related to the strengthening, consolidation, approval and implementation of the newmangrove forest regulation is still pending.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
To date, the following achievements can be mentioned:

4 pilot areas over an area of 532.27 ha with operational community forest management plans centeringon mangrove conservation and management, these being: Blanca Cecilia (22.50 ha), Manchon
Guamuchal (486.77 ha), Cayo Quemado (2.00 ha) and Mangales (21.00);
Training modules and materials for the conservation and sustainable use of mangroves have beendeveloped and disseminated among the stakeholder communities, and are readily available for further
dissemination elsewhere;
A National Strategy for Mangrove Ecosystem Conservation, Management and Restoration has beendeveloped in a participatory manner and has been submitted to the competent government authorities(INAB and CONAP) for their review and approval; and9 local roundtables established with the participation of key local stakeholders are currently active in thedevelopment of local actions focused on mangrove conservation, management and restoration within theframework of the draft national strategy.

The Project has also to date produced several outputs and products, among them several technical documents,of which the following are worthwhile mentioning:
1)
2)
3)
4)

Módulos de capacitación: características, uso y conservación de áreas manglar
Reglamento para el manejo sostenible del recurso forestal del ecosistema manglar
Estrategia para el manejo y conservación del bosque manglar en Guatemala
Planes de manejo comunitario

These publications, describing the achievements, impacts and lessons learnt of the project, will also be uploaded
onto the ITTO website for a greater dissemination to all our member countries and other interested parties, andare available from the ITTO project search tool at http://www.itto.int/project_search/.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 40
Improving efficacy of forestry policies and activities in Liberia through REDD+ demonstration projects
Project number:

RED-SPD 084/12 Rev.1 (F)Project country:

Liberia

Budget:Total:

US$ 308,718

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 149,922

NORAD:

US$ 158,796

Submitted by:

Government of Liberia

Implementing
agency:Forest Development Authority and Flora & Fauna International (FFI)

Duration:

12 months

Financed at:

REDDES 4 Cycle (2012)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
As Liberia emerges from conflict, avoidable threats to its forests remain, including shifting agriculture, illegal andquasi-legal logging, and wide-scale conversion to agro-industrial crops. Underlying these issues are key threats
associated with low national capacity coupled with a lack of large scale livelihood development interventions.
Faced with these challenges, the Government of Liberia has been actively exploring options for REDD+
development- however, a demonstration site is critically lacking. The project proposes to support theestablishment of two on-the-ground demonstration projects for testing pro-poor REDD+ approaches that are
replicable and will feed into improving the efficiency, equity and efficacy of forestry policies and activities in
Liberia. Adopting a grassroots and participatory approach, the project will support the establishment of tenurearrangements and equitable benefit sharing and ensure good governance, with a key focus on community rights
and gender equity. Project activities will support the development of sustainable livelihoods, with a pro-poor
approach underpinning all activities.
Progress:
No progress report was submitted in August 2016 by the project Executing Agency (Forest Development
Authority and Flora & Fauna International / FFI) and Collaborating Agency (Forestry Development Authority of
Liberia / FDA) which informed the Secretariat that the preparation of the completion report was under way
because all project activities have been completed in the field, as a contribution to support the establishment of
two demonstration sites for testing pro-poor REDD+ approaches that are replicable and will feed into improving
the efficiency, equity and efficacy of forestry policies and activities in Liberia.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned should be documented with the completion report under preparationby the Executing Agency Executing Agency (Forest Development Authority and Flora & Fauna International / FFI)
and Collaborating Agency (Forestry Development Authority of Liberia / FDA) at the next Council (ITTC-53).

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 41
Reducing forest degradation and emissions through sustainable forest management (SFM) in peninsular
Malaysia
Project number:

RED-PD 037/11 Rev.2 (F)Project country:

Malaysia

Budget:Total:

US$ 864,622

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 590,922,

Government of Malaysia

US$ 273,700

Submitted by:

Government of Malaysia

Implementing
agency:Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM)

Duration:

36 months

Financed at:

REDDES 3 Cycle (2011)

Status:CompletedrdSummary:
Forest management in Malaysia is based on the Selective Management System (SMS) which involves theselection of a management regime to optimize not only the objectives of efficient and economic harvesting andsustained yield but, more importantly, to ensure that forest development is ecologically and environmentally
sustainable. However, forest degradation in terms of carbon stocks is occurring in production forests as a resultof logging operations. Logging operations in Malaysia in the past have also been reported to be damaging, but
significant improvements have been made. The extent of current forest degradation in terms of carbon stocks
needs to be further studied as it is still not well understood in Malaysia. Reports have indicated that improved
forest management could reduce degradation and reduce carbon emission. However, all these studies are
confined to specific areas and with limited information for scaling up activities. Consequently, this project is
implemented to assess enhancement of climate change mitigation through reduced emissions from forest
degradation in Malaysia. Specifically, the project will determine emissions from forest degradation in logged
forests and assess the value of enhancing forest management practices to reduce emissions from forest
degradation. Financial evaluations of the improved management practices will be undertaken to provide avenues
for assessing payment for ecosystem services.
Progress:
The Agreement regulating the implementation of the project was duly signed on 18 January 2012. The
implementation of the project started in February 2013 after finishing administrative arrangements. The project
implementation was extended until 30 June 2016 without additional funds. The delay in completing the project
was mainly due to the preparation of quality technical reports resulting from the project. In accordance with the
project agreement, the ITTO Secretariat received the project completion report, technical reports and financial
audit report for closure of the project.
All activities based on the four outputs were conducted accordingly as planned in the project document. The main
activities carried out in relation to the four outputs include the following:
Output 1: National forest degradation estimated

Reviewed deforestation and forest degradation drivers in the country and conducted an assessment offorest degradation drivers in Pahang state. The project site is located in Ulu Jelai Forest Reserve, Lipis,
Pahang where an improved logging method of RIL (Rimbaka) has been introduced.
Baseline information on the level of forest carbon stocks as well other values such species composition
and forest structure was assessed before and after logging under current forest management
prescriptions and logging techniques
With assistance of the Lowering Emissions in Asia’s Forests (LEAF) based in Bangkok, Thailand,
produced guidelines to account, monitor and report deforestation and forest degradation. Results of the
project research were presented at many forums including a training course on trainers on climate

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 42change and REDD+ on 25-30 May 2015 at Center for Forestry Education and Training (CFET), Bogor,
Indonesia
Output 2: Forest degradation reduced at the forest management unitConducted an assessment of forest degradation through a survey on soil, litter, sapling and deadwood
carbon in low impact logging area of Ulu Jelai Forest Reserve, Lipis, Pahang
Improved protocols introduced and tested to enhance carbon retention and reduce degradation in one
forest management unit in Pahang. In particular, reduced impact logging systems which reduce theconstruction of skid trails and maintaining forest structure were tested to assess their potential inenhancing current management practices towards achieving sustainable forest management andenhancing carbon stocks.
Changes in carbon stocks under the improved forest management prescriptions and logging techniques
compared with current practice. Other aspects such as forest structure and species composition werealso assessed to better understand the value of forest in additions to carbon stocks

Output 3: Incentives for carbon and ecosystem services establishedReviewed the methodologies in assessing opportunity costs and the costs involved in implementing
REDD+ projects as well as valuation of ecosystem services identified by MEA (2005)
A framework and design for PES (carbon and watershed) in Pahang state produced. It was presented to
key stakeholders such as the Pahang State Economic Planning Unit, Pahang State and Federal Forestry
Departments as well as relevant Federal Ministries for policy development at the Pahang State
Government level
Coaching session on economic valuation of ecosystem services was held on 9-11 March 2015 at BangiPutrajaya Hotel, Malaysia

Output 4: Capacity of major stakeholders and communities where relevant is strengthened

Through various researches on the planning and management of forest in relation to climate change,
FRIM personnel but also relevant people from other agencies and organizations have enhanced theirknowledge on SFM to address climate change.
Provided training in awareness of REDDES and carbon accounting to more than 120 participants; morethan 150 participants/personnel locally and internationally had undergone related activities conductedunder this project
The project team shared project results at many national and international meetings. These include
attending the International Seminar REDD+ Finance Mechanism and Its Optimum Use-How to Incentive
Forest Conservation held on 3-4 February 2015 at Tokyo University which was organized by the FFPRI
of Japan; XIV World Forestry Congress (WFC), Durban, South Africa, 7-11 September 2015; and the51st session of the International Tropical Timber Council (ITTC) on 16-21 November in Kuala Lumpur.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
The Executing Agency has produced a number of papers, posters, articles, awareness materials and project
briefs. These include the following:












Reducing Forest Degradation and Emissions through Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) in
Peninsular Malaysia
Identifying drivers of deforestation in Peninsular Malaysia by using satellite imagery
Assessing Carbon Pools in Dipterocarp Forests of Peninsular Malaysia
Assessing rate of deforestation and changes of carbon stock on mangroves in Pahang, Malaysia
Identifying Drivers of Deforestation and Developing Reference Emission Level for REDD+ In Peninsular
Malaysia
Mitigating the Climate Change by Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) Practices in Peninsular
Malaysia Under REDD+ Mechanism
Carbon Emission from Conversion of Forests to Different Types of Agricultural Crops in Malaysia.
Identifying Payments for Environmental Services on Malaysian Forests (poster)
What is REDD plus? (poster)Comparative Study of Carbon Emissions Changes from Harvesting Techniques in Production Forest inPahang (poster)Achieving REDD+ through SFM in Peninsular Malaysia (project brief)

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 43Carbon Emission from Deforestation in Pahang, Malaysia (project brief)
Biomass and carbon changes from different harvesting techniques in Pahang, Malaysia (project brief)
An Annotated Bibliography on REDD+ in Southeast Asia (book published by FRIM)

Many of technical papers and project briefs can be found on FRIM website at http://www.frim.gov.my/frim-ittoreddes as well as the project’s Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/FRIM-ITTOREDDES/277076555767504.
The project resulted in improved management practices based on SFM in terms of its total carbon storage. In
addition, improved silvicultural and management prescriptions were purposed based on project’s outputs tofurther enhance the carbon stock in the forest. The amount of total carbon stock based on the SFM practices inthis country and Pahang in particular is the critical baseline information for incentive calculation under the REDD+
mechanism. The project has also evaluated the economy aspect for PES such as carbon stock, watershed andecotourism in State of Pahang. The project is among pilot REDD+ projects in Malaysia in order to enhance its
readiness for full implementation of the REDD+, once the mechanism takes place in the country. The outputs ofthe project are expected to enable to better integrate climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into theimprovement of the current forest management practices.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 44
Environmental assessment and economic valuation of ecosystem services provided by coastal forests(mangrove forests, flood forests, rain forests and scrub forests on dunes) and their agricultural
replacement systems on the central coastal plain of Veracruz, Mexico
Project number:

RED-PD 045/11 Rev.2 (M)Project country:

MexicoBudget:Total:

US$ 871,825

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 470,682

Institute of Ecology (INECOL), Mexico

US$ 401,143

Submitted by:

Government of Mexico

Implementing
agency:Institute of Ecology (INECOL)

Duration:

36 months (+15 months no-cost extension)

Financed at:

REDDES 3 Cycle (2011)

Status:OngoingrdSummary:
The project aims at a quantitative assessment of the goods and services provided by the various types of tropicalforests and coastal forests (mangrove forests, tropical flood forests, rain forests and scrub forests on dunes), on
the coastal plains of Veracruz in the Gulf of Mexico. Services to be evaluated will include flood containment,
carbon sequestration, improved water quality, and accelerated regeneration). These services will also beassessed from the economic point of view, and criteria will be developed jointly with local communities formonitoring and valuing these benefits, thus encouraging sustainable use of these ecosystems. A comparison will
be drawn between technical data and local community perceptions of potential benefits and products from these
tropical forests, and the evaluation of services gained for paddocks and agricultural fields created by cutting downthese ecosystems. Material will be developed to publicize valuation and assessment of environmental services
outcomes among the population, and workshops will be organised with government sectors to transfer
information and seek their inclusion in payment for environmental services schemes. The project will contribute tosustainable forest management and to the valuation of coastal forests with similar conditions throughout the Gulf
of Mexico and the Mexican Pacific Region.
Progress:
The first installment of the project was done in May 2012 and the last installment was sent on August 2015. By
now the project has achieved the following outputs:
Output 1: “Environmental and socio-economic diagnosis of resources derived from forests and coastal forests on
the central coastal plains of Veracruz, Mexico”
Results on ‘perceptions on local communities’:The survey has been conducted and results are now available. In summary local communities
understand the relation of the preservation of coastal ecosystems with their well-being and livelihoods,
including use of timber, fire wood, palms, medicinal plants, flora and fauna.
Two publications have been released from the research conducted and are available from ITTO’s project
search at http://www.itto.int/project_search/: Catalogue on local medicinal plants. This particular publication was written by a group of local
women, with the assistance of the Executing Agency, and includes 44 local species, and theiruses in traditional medicine.
 Perceptions of local communities on coastal forest and their environmental services.

Results on ‘restoration techniques’:The project conducted filed study on economical restoration techniques that can be used by local
communities, such as through the poles for birds for distribution of seeds, and tramps to catch seeds.
Two publications have been release on this subject and are available from ITTO’s project search:

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 45A manual on techniques, tricks and practices to restore and maintain trees and mountains in
the dunes of Veracruz
Practical guide to the reforestation and enrichment planting of dunes

Output 2: “Aerial technical evaluation of plant productivity, in coastal forests and their replacement agricultural
systems and organic carbon content in these ecosystems and evaluation of the role of the soil in the containmentof floods and in hydrological flows and water quality in mangroves and flood forests”








Field work has been concluded.
The research shows that the most productive ecosystems for carbon sequestration are rain forests,
secondary vegetation and dunes. These ecosystems also retain sand and avoid the erosion of beaches.
Ecosystems such as rain forest and fresh water marsh are of higher importance for flood containment
and to regulate the water cycle. Some regions of rain forests contain as much as 4 gr of water per gramof soil. These ecosystems are quite sensible to land-use change.
Restoration of paddocks also improves the soil capacity of flood containment.
The loss of containment capacity is highly correlated to the organic carbon sequestered in the soil.
These ecosystems are threatened by land-use change for livestock, and human settlements.
Research activities have been concluded, a video which summarizes the results is available from ITTO’s
YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fxxvb7Yiylg.

Output 3: “Evaluation of the role of native trees in these ecosystems in various agricultural-silvicultural-livestock
benefits”
The research work will conclude with a manual of best practices in the use of endemic trees in
paddocks (draft available).

Output 4: “Economic valuation of environmental services, included in an economic value that can be incorporated
into government policies and instruments”The project studied the economic valuation of the following environmental services:o carbon sequestration,o conservation of water quality for fisheries,
o water catchment and purification,o flood containment,o connectivity and restoration of ecosystems, ando biodiversity conservation
The economic valuation took into account the opportunity costs (direct and indirect), the implementation
costs and the transaction costs for each service.
Results have been summarized on a video available from ITTO’s YouTube channel at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fxxvb7Yiylg. A book will be also published and as of the end of June
2016 a draft is already available.

Output 5: “To encourage rural community involvement in the project and to develop and distribute information todecision-makers, CONAFOR technical experts and rural communities, so that they can incorporate the outcomesof the project in their practices and activities”

The involvement of local communities has been constant throughout project execution, including
surveys, research activities, field monitoring activities, drafting and review of publications andpromotional material.
Plant cover and land use maps, with distinct general categories (tree cover, native herbaceous cover andagricultural/ livestock paddock systems) for the project area, with the purpose of environmental service
spatial mapping, are now available from ITTO’s project search.

Output 6: “Implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the results obtained in the pilot restoration sites, andreproduction of plants for forest restoration”


Field activities in selected sites to monitor forest restoration through the use of artificial perches andisolated trees have been recently concluded
Two manuals for forest restoration are now available from ITTO’s project search
Courses and workshops have been conducted; a final workshop with local communities is schedule
before project completion (end of August 2016).

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 46


Two dissemination videos are now available.

Output 7: “An agreed proposal and operational strategies for its implementation by local users, relevant
government authorities and NGOs with experience in the payment of the environmental services evaluated”
The EA has been working with local stakeholders during the research activities, who have provided
feedback to refine outputs.
Training for governmental authorities at federal and state levels were carried out in June 2015 and May
2016 with the attendance of high level officials from sectors involved in the protection, management anduse of natural resources (water, biodiversity, forest management and natural protected areas), as well as
NGOs. The quality of the research was praised by the officials, in particular INECC (National Institute of
Ecology and Climate Change) which expressed interest in getting all the data generated by the project fora national decree on water reservoirs, stating the value of the project in generating a useful baseline.
CONAFOR (National Forestry Agency) stated that the project is valuable as it reinforce the need toassociate PES to productive projects. Furthermore, all governmental organizations agreed on the valueof sharing the information of the project, in particular in RAMSAR sites, where Mexico has international
obligations.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
As of 30 June 2016, the following products and outreach material have been produced in Spanish, (English
versions are available only if indicated). These products match against the means of verification stated in the
project document, and the project can be considered as technically completed. All materials give proper
recognition to ITTO. Completed products are available at ITTO’s project search at
http://www.itto.int/project_search and through ITTO’s You Tube channel (in the case of videos) at
https://www.youtube.com/user/ittosfm:








02 Videos that summarizes the outputs of the project:o Environmental services of Veracruz’s coastal foresto What’s connectivity?
06 Publications:o Environmental services of Veracruz’s coastal forest (in printing process)o Description of Veracruz’s wetlands and flooded forest (in printing process)o Techniques, tricks and practices to restore and maintain trees and woodland in the dunes of
Veracruz (already published)o Practical guide to the reforestation and enrichment planting of dunes (already published)o Manual on medicinal plants (already published)o Comic on environmental services “the spirit of the tropic” (already published)
28 Maps of the environmental services in four regions of Veracruz (already published)
Outreach materials (all already published):o 02 posters on environmental services for flood forest and duneso 03 leaflets on environmental services for flood forest, dunes and use of trees
o 01 calendar of coastal forest and wetlandso 01 scientific poster on the carbon sequestration by flood forest and dunes
08 Papers published on scientific journals:o Palm use and social values in rural communities on the coastal plains of Veracruz, Mexico(published on ‘Springer science+business media’ in March 2012) – available in Englisho Traditional wetland palm uses in construction and cooking in Veracruz, Gulf of Mexico(published on ‘Indian journal of traditional knowledge’ in July 2012) – available in Englisho Regaining the traditional use of wildlife in wetlands on the coastal plain of Veracruz, Mexico(published on ‘Regional Environmental Change’ in March 2016) – available in English
o Green Rural Enterprises: guidelines for empowering local groups towards sustainable ventures(published on Journal of Environmental Planning and Management in December 2013) –available in English
o Use of trees in Jamapa, traditions in a deforested area (published on ‘Madera y Bosques’ journalin Spring 2016)
o From tropical wetlands to pastures on the coast of the gulf of Mexico (published on ‘Pastos’
journal in 2012) – available in English

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 47o

Scenarios of vulnerability in coastal municipalities of tropical Mexico: an analysis of wetland landuse (published on ‘Ocean & Coastal Management’ journal in December 2013) – available in
Englisho Trade-offs in fishery yield between wetland conservation and land conversion on the Gulf of
Mexico (published on ‘Ocean & Coastal Management’ journal in July 2015) – available in English
13 Theses for advance university degree (indicative titles):o Diagnosis and perspectives for wetland management in Alvarado, Veracruzo Alternatives for conservation of wetlands in the coastal plain of Veracruzo Assessment of the environmental service of provision of natural resources in a paddock in
Jamapa, Veracruzo Assessment of the environmental service of mitigation from storm and hurricane effects
provided by wetlands in Tecoluta, Veracruz
o Forest of Pachira aquatica in the ‘Encrucijada’ biosphere reserve in Chiapas, Mexicoo Rural participation in nature conservationo Use of artificial wetlands for microbial fuelo Use of artificial wetlands and Sagitaria lacinfolia L. for energy generationo Soil characterization of wetlands converted into paddocks in Jamapa, Veracruzo Development of water quality standards for Jamapa’s basino Secondary succession in abandoned paddocks (seed content in the soil)o Characterization of underground water contained in wetlands close to the city of Veracruz
o Relational assessment of water quality and microorganisms

The research results indicate that is extremely important in Mexico to put in place policies and programmes forthe conservation and restoration of wetlands (currently some PES are available for mangroves).
The EA is also disseminating the project results through the sites
http://www1.inecol.edu.mx/costasustentable/esp/presentacion.htm and www.costasustentable.org
Project activities have heavily involved the participation of local communities, who are the owners of the foreststhat provide several environmental services on the coastal plains of Veracruz, Mexico. Such involvement has
already created awareness among the locals about the benefits derived from the forest, the importance of its
preservation and its sustainable management. In fact, the authors of the publication on medicinal plants are thewomen from the community of “Jamapa”.
In terms of continuation of project activities after completion, the EA will remain involved in conducting further
research in the subject as it is part of its mandate. It is desirable that presentation of results may take place at
higher levels within the government as that can have a higher impact for future action.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 48
Capacity building for developing REDD+ activities in the context of sustainable forest management
Project number:

RED-PD 038/11 Rev.3 (F)Project country:

Myanmar

Budget:Total:

US$ 645,692

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 571,890

Government of Myanmar

US$ 73,802

Submitted by:

Government of Myanmar

Implementing
agency:Forest Department/Forest Research Institute. Ministry of Environmental
Conservation and Forestry (MOECAF), Myanmar.

Duration:

36 months

Financed at:

REDDES 3 Cycle (2011)

Status:CompletedrdSummary:
Forests in Myanmar have contributed to the provision of abundant benefits to local, regional and global
communities especially in reducing Green House Gas (GHG) emissions and enhancing forest carbon stocks andenvironmental services. The Toungoo District in the Bago Yoma region of Myanmar is approximately 1,064,939
ha and it will be used as project site. Implementation on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest
Degradation and Enhancing Forest Carbon Stocks (REDD-plus) through sustainable forest management requires
understanding and participation by all stakeholders. As the concept and methodologies of REDD-plus are new to
Myanmar, capacity building and awareness raising for all levels of stakeholders are of crucial importance, andurgently needed. Accordingly, the development objective of this project is to contribute to sustainable forest
management in the Bago Yoma region to improve the provision of environmental services and reduce GHG
emissions from deforestation and degradation and enhancement of carbon stocks. The specific objective of the
project is to strengthen the capacity of the Ministry of Forestry in REDD-plus initiatives. The expected outputs are:(i) REDD-plus national strategies prepared, (ii) Institutional setting for capacity building on REDD-plus
strengthened and (iii) Capacity built to conduct MRV of the carbon stock.
Progress:st

The project was approved and financed under the REDDES 1 Cycle 2011. After the conclusion of the necessary
administrative arrangements including the project agreement, the Executing Agency commenced the project in
October 2012. The project implementation was extended to increase the achievement of the project until June
2016 without additional funds. In accordance with the project document, the Executing Agency has completed all
project activities and submitted the project completion report, technical report and financial audit report in August
2016.
The main activities carried out in relation to the three outputs include the following:
Output 1 REDD-plus national strategy prepared

Major drivers of deforestation and forest degradation were identified and draft national strategies forreforestation and forest degradation formulated and published.
C&I for REDD+ Social and Environmental Safeguards (in English and in Myanmar) developed andpublished.
REDD+ Readiness Roadmap was developed with support of UN-REDD Programme.

Output 2 Institutional setting for capacity building on REDD-plus strengthened

Build institutional capacity for national REDD+ strategy development through the organization of 8
technical trainings, 4 national workshops and 2 seminars as well as study tours to Vietnam and Malaysia.
Established 3 National REDD+ Working Groups and 3 REDD+ Core Units. For the formulation of national
REDD+ strategy, 25 consultation meetings (technical meetings) were held with the participation of
REDD+ Core Units and National REDD+ Working Groups.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 49

REDD+ training modules were developed and disseminated to Forestry Training Schools under Forest
Department and Myanma Timber Enterprise
419 persons (including government staff and local communities) were trained on the opportunities andchallenges of REDD+ various activities
Free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) guideline was developed, published and disseminated. A
training course on FPIC was held on 30 March - 3 April 2015 at Forest Research Institute, Yezin as wellas on 20-29 May 2015 at the Pawlangyi Forest Camp, Paukkhaung Township, Pyay District, Bago
Region.

Output 3 Capacity to conduct MRV of carbon stock built









Standard operational guidelines for National Forest Monitoring System (MRV) (in Myanmar) developed
Guideline for forest inventory and biomass survey was prepared and published.
REDD+ demonstration site was established in Compartments 12, 14, 18, 19, 20 of Kyaukmasin
Reserved Forest, Yedashe Township
Model Community Forest (20 household village) was re-vitalized in Yedashe Township. Demonstration
on Agroforestry and Bamboo Plantation were established in Yoma public Protected Area, Yedashe
TownshipReport on Forest Inventory in Yedashe and Oktwin Townships of Toungoo District (in English)
Conducted a survey of the estimation of the above ground forest biomass, above ground forest carbon,
timber volume, basal area and number of trees on the National Forest Inventory data (2013) of Taungoo
Forest Division
Reviewed the construction of Forest Emission Reference Level Levels in the project site in accordancewith the Warsaw Framework on REDD+
An extension and educational public talk about forest, climate change and efficient stove was conducted
at Let Pan Kone Village, Kyo Pin Thar Village and Thine Wa Village on 10th January 2015. On 5th April
2015, another extension and public educational talk relating to forest, climate change and combatting
illegal logging was conducted at Than Dadar Village, Okpho Village and Thit Poke Pin Village of Yedahse
Township, Taungoo District. During the two public talks, a total of 240 efficient stoves was distributed tovillagers.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
As part of capacity building of key stakeholders for promotion of REDD+ in Myanmar, the Executing Agency has
produced a series of REDD+ related knowledge materials, technical reports and proceedings of project’s
international events. These include the following:















Newsletters (8) sets
1) SFM and Multiple Function of Forest
2) SFM and Climate Chang Adaptation
3) SFM and Biological Diversity Management
4) SFM and REDD+
5) SFM and Indigenous People6) SFM and Gender7) SFM and Food security and Livelihood8) SFM and Primary Forests
REDD+ Glossary (in English and in Myanmar)
Guidelines for Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC)
Guidelines on Destructive Measurement for Forest Biomass Estimation for Technical Staff Use (inMyanmar)
REDD+ Manual (in Myanmar)
Social and Environmental Safeguards (in English and in Myanmar)
REDD+ Academy Modules (translation into Myanmar language)
National Forest Monitoring System (in Myanmar)
Voluntary Guidelines for SFM (ITTO Guidelines translated in Myanmar)
Major drivers of deforestation and forest degradation (in English)
Proceedings on International Workshop on Capacity Development of Stakeholders (December, 2013)
Proceedings on International Workshop on REDD+ and Sustainable Land Use Management in Myanmar(December, 2014)
Proceedings on International Workshop on REDD+, CF and Women (December 2015)

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 50
Key technical reports and materials can be found on the following:Facebook: REDD+ Programme in Myanmar (https://www.facebook.com/redd.psd.fd.moecaf/)
Website: Forest Department (http://www.fdmoecaf.gov.mm/eng/)
Blog: reddteammyanmar (http://reddmyanmar.blogspot.com/)

This ITTO REDD+ Capacity Building project is a pioneer in Myanmar and initiated several activities for thereadiness of REDD+ in Myanmar. Awareness about REDD+ has been improved among line Ministries, NGOs,
local communities in the project site and relevant stakeholders. In collaboration with UN-REDD Programme, theproject staff members facilitated the series of stakeholder consultation meetings, and consultation meetings inStates and Regions including National Validation Workshop on REDD+ Readiness Roadmap. As a result, thenational REDD+ Readiness Roadmap was adopted in June 2013. Key outcomes of the project were presented ata side event on REDD+ within INDCs: Governance lessons learnt from community forest management in tropics
which was held at 1 December 2015 at UNFCCC COP 21 in Paris, France.
With the various initiatives and supports of the project, the REDD+ Readiness will be going on after thecompletion of the project. Particularly, continued efforts will be made for the implementation of national strategies,
improvement of the national forest monitoring system, setting up forest emission reference level/forest reference
level and implementation of the safeguard information system. Multi-stakeholder coordination mechanism will
also be working for the REDD+ readiness since national level working groups were formally established with thefacilitation of the project. Local communities will continue to participate in forest conservation activities since theirlivelihood activities are linked to community forestry and SFM activities. It would be important for the Executing
Agency, Forest Department of Myanmar to mobilize resources necessary for the successful implementation of
the REDD+ Readiness through strengthening REDD+ technical working group and further institutionalization of
REDD+ for long run.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 51
Rehabilitation and restoration of residual forests and arid savannah lands in the Akpé and Akama valleys
Project number:

RED-PD 031/11 Rev.1 (F)Project country:

Togo

Budget:Total:

US$ 773,349

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 478,894

Government of Togo

US$ 294,455

Submitted by:

Government of Togo

Implementing
agency:Office de Développement et d’Exploitation des Forêts

Duration:

36 months

Financed at:

REDDES 3 Cycle (2011)

Status:CompletedrdSummary:
The project is the result of pre-project PPD 7/98 Rev. 2 (F) and simultaneously aims to implement therehabilitation and restoration of residual forests and the conversion of arid savannah lands in the AkpossoAkébou landscape for timber production with the involvement of local communities in order to improve the socioeconomic conditions of local communities.
It provides for the enrichment planting of natural forests (200 ha), agro-forestry lots (50 ha), gallery forests (50 ha)
and the establishment of 300-ha new forest plantations. To secure the sustainability of this rehabilitation: i) a coordination mechanism will be established between stakeholders; ii) local communities will be effectively trained inparticipatory management; iii) and most of all, a management plan will be established and implemented by amanagement unit to be created.
Progress:a) Administrative aspects:
The Project Agreement regulating the implementation of the project was duly signed on 12 January 2012. An
Inception Report and related first Yearly Plan of Operation were submitted on 21 January 2012 and approved.
The project implementation began with the disbursement of the first installment of ITTO TP funds on 01 February
2012. The ITTO budget modification was approved in June 2014 in order to increase social-related actions for the
benefit of local communities involved in the project implementation.
However, for this 36-month project, as an acceptable version of the project completion report was received in July
2016, the project operation period had lasted 53 months instead of 36 initially designed by the implementing
agency (ODEF). Upon receipt of an acceptable final financial audit report, this project could be documented forthe completion and closure procedures.
b) Technical aspects:
The main project outcomes, in relation to the expected outputs and associated activities, could be summarized asfollows:
Output 1: Stakeholders’ coordination mechanism establishedAdvocacy work towards project stakeholders to promote the objectives of the project was achieved
through the sensitization campaigns in Bato and Alaousso villages located in Akebou and Amou
Prefectures, for the rehabilitation and restoration of degraded forest lands and savannas.
Collaboration agreements between stakeholders were signed by representatives of key stakeholders,
including local communities involved in the project implementation, in order to insure a smooth
participation of stakeholders in Alaousso and Bato villages.
A stakeholders’ advisory committee was established, after a consultation process that had involved

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 52
representatives of key stakeholders, in order to be used as a special structure providing appropriate
guidance dealing with forest restoration/rehabilitation activities in Bato and Alaousso villages, in Togo.
Output 2: The communities have the capacities required for rehabilitating ecosystems







200 hectares of degraded forest lands had been reforested with four species (Khaya grandifolia, Khaya
senegalensis, Terminalia superba and Cedrela odorata) using the enrichment silviculture techniques;
128 hectares of agroforestry plantations had been established with one species (Tectona grandis) at therequest of local communities involved in the project implementation;
10 hectares of degaraded natural forest plots had been enriched with four species (Khaya grandifolia,
Khaya senegalensis, Terminalia superba and Cedrela odorata);
303 hectares of savannas lands had been reforested with three species (Khaya senegalensis, Tectona
grandis and Gmelina arborea) using the taungy agroforestry system, at the request of local communities
involved in the project implementation;
3
Two water pools, with a capacity of storage of 25,000m , were built in Bato and Alaousso villages for the
production of seedlings and also for agriculture activities (production of crops), as permanent sources ofwater even during the dry season; andTwo nurseries were established and operational in Alaousso and Bato villages, where 106,660 seedlingsand 370,680 seedlings had been produced respectively, for the abovementioned rehabilitation tasks, withthe participation of local communities.

Output 3: Forest resources management plan developed and implemented

Local communities were trained on the participatory and sustainable forest resources management
practices through the holding of a series of workshops and meetings dealing with the participatory
approach for the sustainable management of forest resources in areas around both villages (Alousso
and Bato); andKey stakeholders, including local communities, were involved in the preparation of a management plan offorest resources for Alaousso and Bato villages. Both management plans were approved by theGovernment of Togo with the aim to ensure a participatory and sustainable management of forest
resources in the project target area around the Alaousso and Bato villages.

Achievements, Impacts and lessons learned:
The main project achievements, impacts and lessons learned, in relation to the expected outputs and associatedactivities could be summarized as follows:







Bush fire control and rehabilitation of degraded lands (forests and savannas) had been considered aspart of priorities for local communities in Bato and Alaousso villages, because of good sensitization
campaigns undertaken by the project team in consultation with selected local leaders gathered in the
Stakeholders’ Advisory Committee (SAC);
Local communities have got the technical capacity for the production of forest seedlings through theestablishment and management of two nurseries in Alaousso and Bato villages;
Agriculture activities, in particular food crops production, have been stimulated in both villages due to thepermanent availability of water provided by two water pools built by the project;
The access to Bato and Alaousso villages was facilitated by the work of profiling/repairing 19 km of a dirt
road leading to both villages. The project executing agency was able to mobilize the governmental
counterpart funds for the abovementioned road-related works;
The establishment of SAC contributed to the participation of stakeholders for a smooth implementation ofthis project.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 53
Reducing deforestation and forest degradation in the Natchambonga and Djiyega community forests
by promoting participatory forest management actions
Project number:

RED-SPD 092/12 Rev.1 (F)Project country:

Togo

Budget:Total:

US$ 290,377

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 149,904

Government of Togo:

US$ 140,473

Submitted by:

Government of Togo

Implementing
agency:Water and Forest Authority

Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

REDDES 4 Cycle (2012)

Status:CompletedthSummary:
The project aims to contribute to the restoration and rehabilitation of the Natchambonga and Djiyega forests toensure the value-added development of environmental services and to improve the livelihoods of people in thesavannah region of Togo. It will reduce unplanned deforestation and forest degradation for the benefit of local
communities. Project activities aim to establish 50 ha of grazing pastures, 100 ha of fuel wood plantations; toredefine transhumance corridors (for seasonal movement) through stakeholders’ consensus; to establish 10
reservoirs; to support forest protection; to improve charcoal production technology; to improve agricultural
practices; to conduct extension work and raise awareness of regulations; to train stakeholders in SFM/SLM
techniques; to train 50 stakeholders in GHG evaluation; and to train and equip local forest management
committees.
Progress:a) Administrative aspects:
The Project Agreement regulating the implementation of this small project was duly signed on 31 January 2013.
An Inception Report and related Detailed Work Plan were submitted and approved by the ITTO Secretariat. The
project implementation began with the disbursement of the first installment of TP funds in April 2013. However,for this 24-month project, as an acceptable version of the project completion report was received in June 2016,
the project operation period had lasted 38 months instead of 24 initially designed by the implementing agency(Water and Forest Directorate). Upon receipt of an acceptable final financial audit report, this project could be
documented for the completion and closure procedures.
b) Technical aspects:
The main project outcomes, in relation to the expected outputs and associated activities, could be summarized asfollows:
Output 1: The land-use allocation process is improved through the rehabilitation of 150 ha of degraded forests

70 ha had been planted along the identified and demarcated transhumance corridors with the following
species: Leucaena leucocephala, Peltophorum ferrugineum and Albizzia lebbeck. The aim was toprovide grazing pastures for livestock farmers and transhumant herders in order to contribute to
mitigating conflicts generated by the destruction/degradation of forest lands and food crops by cattle
during the transhumance period;
103 ha of forest plantations (for fuelwood) had been established by local communities with the following
tree species: Azadirachta indica, Senna siamea, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Tamarindus indica, Vittelaria
paradoxa, Parkia bigloboso and Khaya senegalensis;
8.6 km of transhumance corridors had been identified, demarcated and established through a consensus
and participatory process involving relevant stakeholders;ITTC(LII)/8
Page 54

2 main water wells were established near the sites selected for the establishment of nurseries for the
production of forest seedlings in Natchambonga and Djiyega villages, while 8 water reservoirs were
established along the transhumance corridors near five villages (Boumbouaka, Dapaong, Kountouare,
Gniampoule and Bouldjoare). These water wells and reservoirs had been supervised by local water
management committee established in each village.

Output 2: Natural resources are sustainably used by organizing farmers and charcoal producers, and putting inplace local committeesFire prevention activities had been carried out by local communities with the surveillance groups
established in villages involved in the project implementation;
Training workshops had been organized for the dissemination and extension of improved techniques forcharcoal production in the target project area, as well as for the promotion of the utilization of improved
wood stoves, at the request some local communities.

Output 3: Technical and managerial capacities are enhanced through capacity training on charcoal production
techniquesTraining workshops and meetings were conducted by the NGO called RAFIA for the extension anddissemination works aiming to raise awareness on the forest-related regulations at national and local
levels.
Training activities were carried out by the same NGO, RAFIA, on key aspects regarding the sustainable
forest management (SFM) and sustainable landscape management (SLM) techniques, for local
communities involved in the project implementation.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
The main project achievements, impacts and lessons learned, in relation to the expected outputs and associatedactivities, could be summarized as follows:








Sensitization campaigns of local communities had led to their participation in the project implementation
for selected activities dealing with the rehabilitation of forests and landscape degraded because humanactivities (bush fire for slash and burn agriculture, charcoal and fuelwood, etc.), in Natchambonga andDjiyega villages.
Frequent conflicts (due to the destruction/degradation of forest lands and food crops by cattle during thetranshumance period) between settled populations and nomadic communities had been mitigated by theappropriate redefinition and improvement of transhumance corridors (used for seasonal movement ofdomestic animals searching for grazing areas).
Both the Natchambonga and Djigeya forests had been selected for the process leading to the creation of
the two first community forests in Togo, thanks to the results and findings of the implementation of thisproject.
Various local committees (for forest management, water and fire control) had been established invillages involved in the project implementation.
The permanent availability of water near villages had been considered par local communities as anopportunity to undertake some income generating activities (production of gardening products and foodcrops), even during the dry season. That had been also a good opportunity for the improvement of thelivelihood of local communities.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 55
TMT
Support for ANAFOR for optimum operation of the database management of Pericopsis elata (Assamela)in Cameroon
Project number:

TMT-SPD 020/15 (M)Project country:

Cameroon

Budget:Total:

US$ 113,400

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 113,400

Submitted by:

Government of Cameroon

Implementing
agency:ANAFOR

Duration:

10 months

Financed at:

TMT 5 Cycle (2015)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
The database (Dbase) on Assamela established as part of the ITTO/CITES Joint Regional Programme on
monitoring of plant species listed in Appendix II has operated under sub-optimal conditions. Remote locations of
production and/or processing sites, or energy deficit problems, use of one data formats by logging companies,
among many others, are obvious constraints associated with any physical collection of production data to feed theDbase, which prevent the efficient operation of this Dbase. This project has been developed in response to theidentified challenges with the aim to ensure the proper operation of the Assamela Dbase by involving all
stakeholders in the management of the species in Cameroon. The activities will allow ANAFOR to ensureharmonization of the data collection format for Assamela; to train managers of forest management units in
logging companies, as well as the staff of the Forest and Customs Departments due to take over from ANAFOR
the responsibility to conduct the regular collection of data at forest sites and shipping ports. The databasemanagement unit shall also be provided with equipment and technical resources to ensure the continuous
monitoring of the collection system and updating of the species processing/recovery rate for the next two years.
This project was funded as part of the ITTO-CITES Programme.
Progress:th

The project has been approved under the 5 TMT Cycle (2015). The project agreement has been signed on 6
July 2015 and the project is ongoing. The Assamela Dbase system has been developed and several training
workshops occurred in the second half of 2015. However the loss of ITTO project funds has prevented the
disbursement of the final instalment of project funds which has prevented completion of the project as scheduled.
ANAFOR organized the first meeting of the National Technical Committee (NTC) on 25 August 2015 where theActivity document including the objectives, the work plan and the budget were examined. The NTC recommended
that (i) an additional data sheet be included in the current field logging book with specific elements related to P.
elata; (ii) the data collection be automatic (obliged) for any forest company that wishes to exploit P. elata in
Cameroon; and (iii) the coordination team should work closely with the timber industry association in planningfield missions for data collection. Terms of reference for the three studies had been developed and validated by
the Scientific Committee in September 2015, namely, (i) updating of field sheets for data collection in different
forest concessions; (ii) updating the volume base tariff; and (iii) updating and integration of the processing
coefficient (log/sawn wood) in the database. The studies related to the revision of the volume base tariff andprocessing coefficient will be carried out in coordination with related studies under another project (C2D) fundedby the French government as to avoid any duplication and to assure synergies. ANAFOR organized the second
meeting of the Scientific Committee in February 2016 with the aim to validate the reports produced by theexperts.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
The Assamela Dbase has been developed and several users trained, however full development of the database

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 56
to monitor production and trade of assamela and completion of the studies mentioned above will depend on theprovision of the final installment of project funds.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 57
Supporting SMEs and importers of tropical timber for better understanding of CITES and the need tocomply with CITES rules in China
Project number:

TMT-SPD 023/15 Rev.1 (M)Project country:

China

Budget:Total:

US$ 246,800

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 150,000

Submitted by:

Government of China

Implementing
agency:Research Institute of Forestry Policy and Information, Chinese Academy ofForestry (RIFPI/CAF)

Duration:

18 months

Financed at:

TMT 5 Cycle (2015)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
Legality requirements and timber procurement policies are being introduced in many countries. These
requirements and policies are principally aimed at addressing public concerns about the legal and environmental
credentials of products. Many purchasers are demanding that products should come from sustainable, or at least
legal, sources and that this be verifiable in order to maintain credibility with buyers in the market place.
These requirements and policies have significant implications for tropical timber importers and manufacturers. As
developments are occurring at a rapid rate, there is an urgent need for tropical wood product importers andmanufacturers to monitor these developments, assess the costs in meeting these requirements and explore themarket implications and opportunities presented by these developments.
The project aims to raise the capacity of SMEs and importers of tropical timber in Yangtze River Delta tounderstand and prepare procurement strategies and business plans to take into account the development of
CITES Appendices, with a view to improving market transparency and promoting the trade in tropical timber fromsustainably managed and legally harvested forests.
This project was funded as part of the ITTO-CITES Programme.
Progress:
The following activities have been carried out:









Collecting and procuring trade data about the species on the CITES list. The data mainly comes from
China Customs and CITES dataset. The HS involved include: 44039930, 44039950, 44079910,
44079500, 44072990 and ect.;
Identifying commercial timbers included in CITES Appendices which are imported and utilized by SMEs;
Interviewing the director of Multilateral division of the International Cooperation Department in SFA to get
overall information and deeply understand the relation between Chinese forestry and CITES;
Arranging to interview the related experts and entrepreneurs. These experts include the director of
Endangered Species Management Office, the scholar of research institute of wood industry, Chinese
Academy of Forestry;
Analyzing the impact of CITES implementation on the import and export of rosewood, and some
important conclusions are realized;
Drafting the report “Analysis of trends and impact on China’s timber trade of commercial timbers includedin CITES”;
Establishing a CITES Wechat mobile webpage linked to FPI Wechat mobile web. The FPI webpage,
which releases the latest news about CITES to SMEs in China, has set up links to CITES website, suchas https://cites.org and http://www.cites.gov.cn;
Setting up the training group, developing a work plan in detail, and assigning tasks to members.

The first instalment of funds of US$ 80,000 was made in September 2015. The final instalment with a balance of

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 58
US$ 42,570 is awaiting disbursement.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
This small project will analyze the impact of CITES implementation on the import and export of rosewood, which
will provide to the policy makers as well as the importers the latest progress of CITES listing and advise how toadapt to the developments. The report “Analysis of trends and impact on China’s timber trade of commercial
timbers included in CITES”, which is being drafted as main output of the project, will be disseminated to a wide
range of stakeholders in Chinese timber sector.
Wechat is now the most popular mobile based communication tool in China. This project has established a
CITES Wechat mobile webpage, providing updated information on CITES knowledge every two weeks andenabling dialogue between SMEs and importers and exporters on CITES related issues. As the other ITTO
project established FPI Wechat mobile webpage, the CITES webpage has set up links to it as well as the CITES
website, so as to maximize the impact and dissemination and provide more information to relevant stakeholders.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 59
Establishment of a monitoring center for the industrial use of P. Elata in the Republic of Congo
Project number:

TMT-SPD 021/15 Rev.1 (I)Project country:

Republic of Congo

Budget:Total:

US$ 143,000

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 130,000

Submitted by:

Government of the Republic of Congo

Implementing
agency:National Centre for Forest and Wildlife Resources Inventory andManagement (CNIAF)

Duration:

12 months

Financed at:

TMT 5 Cycle (2015)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:This project aims to establish a monitoring center for P. elata industrial use in the Republic of Congo. The
expected results are: (1) The flow of information on logging activities is designed, (2) The information data to be
secured are identified, (3) the architecture of the information system is developed, ( 4) the data are collected andstored, (5) Users of the information system are trained. The monitoring center will focus on the harvesting andprocessing of Afrormosia timber. It primarily aims to inform management and planning decisions as well as tomeet the information needs of the scientific community. The system will be capable of securing and facilitating themonitoring of information related to the industrial use of the Afrormosia species.
This project was funded as part of the ITTO-CITES Programme.
Progress:th

The project has been approved under the 5 TMT Cycle (2015). The project agreement has been signed on 29
June 2015 and the project is ongoing. The National Technical Committee (NTC) met for the first time in
September 2015 and examined the Activity document including the objectives, the work plan and the budget. The
NTC appreciated the link made between this Activity and the recommendations formulated in the non-detrimentfindings report developed during the first phase of the ITTO-CITES Program. A total of three experts wererecruited with the assistance of the ITTO-CITES Programme Regional Coordinator for Africa namely, (i) an expert
on the state-of-the-art of the current control system; (ii) an expert on geographic information systems; and (iii) a
database specialist. A Scientific Committee met for the first time from 2-3 December 2015 in Brazzaville andexamined and validated the reports submitted by the experts. The database developed is quite simple, easy touse, and based on Excel. The training workshop on the use of the database was organized at Ouesso, North
Congo in February 2016.
All funds have been disbursed to this project and it was due to be completed in mid-2016, however nocompletion or progress report had been received from Congo at the time of preparing this report.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 60
Preparation of the publication “Atlas of tropical timber species – 1st Edition: Technologicalcharacteristics and uses of 273 tropical timber species (and 17 temperate species)”
Project number:

TMT-SPD 010/12 Rev.1 (M)Project country:

FranceBudget:Total:

US$ 273,789

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 138,033

CIRAD

US$ 135,756

Submitted by:FranceImplementing
agency:CIRAD

Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

TMT 3 Cycle (2012)

Status:OngoingrdSummary:
The project aims to produce, publish and disseminate an Atlas of tropical timber species covering the information
contained in the latest TROPIX software (version 7 - 2011) distributed by CIRAD; the very first version of thissoftware was developed in the late 1980s by CTFT (CIRAD Forestry Department) with financial support from
ITTO. This new Atlas is meant to be a continuation of the three former timber Atlas covering Africa, SouthAmerica, and Asia respectively, the last of these three books (on timber from South America) have been
produced and published in 1988 by CTFT and ATIBT with financial support from ITTO. The three books are stillin high demand among operators of the timber sector but they are partly out of print; in addition, most of theinformation contained is partly obsolete and should be updated and supplemented. The Atlas will be published in
French and English (TROPIX is available in these two languages). The new edition will be associated with therelease of a new version of TROPIX (version 8) describing species in greater number than the current version 7(290 total instead of the current 245) and having new technological features requested by operators in the timber
sector.
This project was funded as part of the ITTO-CITES Programme.
Progress:
The project agreement was signed in September 2013. The project implementation has started in October 2013and despite some delays, the project is well advanced. The project is now approaching to the final stage of
implementation. The following activities have been carried out:








Documentary research and complementary literature reviewed. The number of 290 species to be
described in the Atlas was increased to 328 species;
Additional testing technology and digitization of wood samples developed;
Collection photo books or wood products carried out. 150 more pictures have been collected and thecontinuation of the collection is running;
Writing Technical descriptions for species to be added in Tropix and Atlas finalized. The share of added
species in Tropix and written software rose to 80%;
The manuscript of the Atlas for the printer-model maker finalized and completed. The new version of theTropix software (V 7.5) as the basis for the script receives the latest validation and will soon be available
on the website http: // tropix. cirad.fr/.
Proofreading of technical descriptions of the Atlas essences: Before the construction of the model thatwill prove to be the final stage before production of the Atlas, it was decided to start proofreading oftechnical documents. This will have only one reading of this model before printing.

The first installment of funds of US$ 70,000 was made in October 2013. The final installment with a balance of
US$ 57,808 is pending funding.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 61

In accordance with the suspension of ITTO funding, CIRAD, the Executing Agency of the project submitted a
proposal for the minor modifications of the project outcomes and budget with a view to completing the project
within the received funds and minimize the impact on the achievements of project objectives. However, as thecost for the delivery of the electronic version of English version of the Atlas has been committed to collaborating
agency, the EA is expecting a disbursement of funds of US$ 20,700 from ITTO for the finalization of the project.
As the project is in the very final stages, the request should receive due consideration.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
The project is being built to its full extent and suggests a final product, the Atlas of tropical wood, which will be areference and a key tool and a major interest for actors of tropical timber industries internationally.
The project received a favorable reaction from all private or public operators informed of its existence and someof which are involved in the project work. The Atlas of tropical timber is highly anticipated and a number of these
operators have already spontaneously volunteered to participate by providing highly relevant data and information
on timbers as well as pictures to illustrate the technical descriptions in the Atlas. All operators surveyed agreed
that the quality of the work has to be high for the Atlas to be useful and the project team will continue to work for a
product of international standard that will be universally recognized. The number of species described in the Atlas
has been increased from initially 290 species to 330 species because it was considered of major interest to covera wider range tropical species involved in regular trade.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 62
Improving intra-African trade and market transparency in timber and timber products
Project number:

TMT-SPD 012/12 Rev.1 (M)Project country:

Ghana

Budget:Total:

US$ 149,996

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 111,931

Ghana Timber Millers Organization:

US$

Submitted by:

Ghana

Implementing
agency:Ghana Timber Millers Organization (GTMO)

Duration:

24 months

Financed at:

TMT 3 Cycle (2012)

Status:Ongoing

38,065rd

Summary:
African timber suppliers accounted for less 10% per year of the total African imports of timber and timber
products (ITTO 2010). One major constraint identified was the lack of knowledge among traders in the region.
This proposal seeks to increase knowledge of the regional market and promote trade (and thus leading to anincreased intra-African market share) within the region through active engagement of traders and information
provision. The outputs of the study will be an online timber marketplace, capacity building of enterprises toleverage ICT to enhance their competitiveness, and a geospatial database of market access and logistic
information. The online timber marketplace will catalogue timber companies, trade leads and provide a social
media tool to facilitate liaison among African traders. At the marketplace, regular surveys will be conducted withtrader and market intelligence will be gleaned, prepared and reported on the website for the various users.
This project was funded as part of the ITTO-CITES Programme.
Progress:

The technical activities under this project have been completed and the Executing Agency has submitted
the completion report in August 2016. The project Executing Agency still needs to submit the final
financial audit report for the project closure.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
The website for an online timber marketplace has been designed and developed. The design of African Timber
Newsletter and social pages has been finalized. The online marketplace will promote trade and increaseawareness of market information among traders in the region. The newsletter will convey relevant and timely
information to actors in the marketplace. The marketing training will enhance the ability of companies to craft
effective marketing strategies. The translation of the website into French has been completed as far as possible.
The completion report is in preparation.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 63
Improving sustainable Pericopsis elata conservation and trade regulation in Ghana
Project number:

TMT-SPD 017/15 Rev.2 (M)Project country:

Ghana

Budget:Total:

US$ 186,611

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 149,997

Submitted by:

Government Ghana

Implementing
agency:Nature and Development Foundation

Duration:

18 months

Financed at:

TMT 5 Cycle (2015)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:This project is aimed at establishing the current conservation and trade status of Pericopsis elata in Ghana. This
will be done through a habitat survey to assess the distribution and quantities of Pericopsis elata in Ghana andalso ascertain the current market dynamics in its trade. The main objective of the project is to improve theavailability of current data on the distribution, quantities and trade of Pericopsis elata in Ghana. The project will
enable the FC to adopt the designed and tested tools and mechanisms to improve market regulation and put in
effective interventions for its sustainable conservation. To guarantee sustainability of objectives and outcomes,
the continuous support and guidance of NDF will be readily available to the FC and industry players.
This project was funded as part of the ITTO-CITES Programme.
Progress:
The project has been approved under the 5th TMT Cycle (2015). The project agreement was signed on 27 July
2015. Within the period under reporting,activities executed included conducting a market study on Pericopsis
elata, conducting of a habitat condition and distribution patterns of Pericopsis elata in the country and thedevelopment of a video documentary to aid advocacy on the species.
1) Market study
The purpose of the market survey is to establish the value chain, trade volumes and level of knowledge of theprotection status of Pericopsis elata in Ghana. Although Pericopsis elata is an endangered and CITES Listed
species, prior information gathered before the project development suggested that there were some trading in thedomestic market and export of the species in utter disregard of the precarious conservation status of the species.
To verify the authenticity of the above statement, the study was conducted in major and minor timber markets
where there were high potentials of trade in the species. The study has established current statistics on tradevolumes and trade chain of Pericopsis elata, the trade volumes versus quantities in the context of sustainability,
trade regulations mechanisms instituted and their effectiveness in maintaining sustainable trade. The study also
involved an assessment of the level of knowledge of market players on the protection status of the species andthe required procedures in its trade.
2) Study on the habitat conditions and distribution patterns of Pericopsis elata in Ghana
The study sought to provide information on the distribution, population and conservation status of Pericopsis elata
in Ghana for its sustainable management for improved trade in the species. The objectives of the study are toprovide current data on the distribution, estimate plant density and wood volumes, determine the habitat
conditions and describe the conservation status of the Pericopsis elata in Ghana. As part of the study, physicalvisits were made to sites (forest reserves) to have first-hand information on the habitat condition and the
distribution patterns.
Another activity was to engage a media consultant to addressing the information gap on and the threat to thesustainable management of Pericopsis elata in Ghana by raising public awareness and interest on the species. A
10 minutes documentary on the state of pericopsis in Ghana has been developed. The documentary which is
expected to reach 50,000 Ghanaians through national TV and other online platforms such as YouTube. The
documentary is expected to encourage individuals and businesses to take action to save the species from local

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 64extinction. It is also to inform and encourage wood consumers not to patronize Pericopsis elata timber sold in thedomestic market.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
The Project succeeded to collect more information on Pericopsis elata in Ghana which will contribute to raiseawareness on the importance of sustaining the endangered species. The results of study on the habitat
conditions and distribution patterns will help the Government to develop an action plan to manage the species.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 65
Establishment of a fully documented reference sample collection and identification system for all
CITES-listed Dalbergia species and a feasibility study for Diospyros and look-alike species
Project number:

TMT-SPD 022/15 Rev.2 (M)Project country:

GlobalBudget:Submitted by:

Total:
US$ 220,000
ITTO Contribution:
US$ 200,000
Collaborative Guatemala, Madagascar, Switzerland

Implementing
agency:Plant Ecological Genetics (PEG), Institute of Integrative Biology (IBZ), ETH
Zurich, Switzerland

Duration:

13 months

Financed at:

TMT 5 Cycle (2015)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:
With increasing international demand for precious tropical timber and the difficulties to prevent illegal logging,pressure on source countries is rising to ensure legal and sustainable timber trade. In order to help source
countries with trade control, the parties of the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
agreed on listing all Dalbergia and Diospyros spp. populations from Madagascar on Appendix II. The listing ofthese species is helping CITES authorities and other involved institutions to better control the trade of wood
products derived from these precious timbers on the international market and is an important step towards asustainable use of these species. Nonetheless, to enforce CITES regulations, reliable and fast identification
techniques for logs and wood products are needed. The main objectives of the here proposed project are to 1)
establish a fully documented reference sample collection for all Dalbergia species currently listed in CITES
Appendix I-III and 2) to finalize identification systems that are being developed based on DNA analysis and wood
anatomy for all Dalbergia species currently listed in CITES. Experience gained from Dalbergia will then be used to3) assess the feasibility of developing an identification system for the species-rich ebony genus Diospyros and 4)
to assess the feasibility of including look-alike species of both taxa. Reaching these goals will help Madagascar
with the implementation of the Action plan for Dalbergia and Diospyros agreed at the CoP16.
This project was funded as part of the ITTO-CITES Programme.
Progress:th

The project has been approved under the 5 TMT Cycle (2015). It aims to assist Madagascar to implement the
Appendix II listings of nearly 200 Dalbergia and Diospyros species and Central American countries to implement
the Appendix II listings of several Dalbergia species approved at CITES COP 16. The reference sample collection
will be facilitated by collaborative agreements between the implementing agencies and CITES authorities in
Madagascar and Guatemala.
In Madagascar, field sampling was conducted in two different areas in the Western part of the country (region ofMorondava and Tulear) where fruits and flowers of Dalbergia, Diospyros and look-alikes were collected using thedeveloped sampling protocol and are now being analyzed. In addition, a sampling strategy and a work plan havebeen prepared for Guatemala. This was to have been followed by a field visit to Guatemala that aimed to
exchange knowledge about techniques and species, as well as to discuss the sampling procedure and initiate
sampling. However activities in Guatemala have been cancelled due to the inability of the country to authorize
export permits for the research samples required. Project funds originally earmarked for work in Guatemala will
instead be devoted to the work in Madagascar.
For Madagascar, laboratory work at the ETH Zurich (Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich) continued
to test different protocols for DNA extraction and amplification of Dalbergia wood, and to increase the reference
dataset. These tests were completed in March 2016. The establishment of the wood anatomy laboratory is also
completed and wood anatomy work has commenced. The project will be completed on schedule by the end of2016.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 66
Strengthening of the forest information system of Guatemala to improve market and trade transparency
and decision-making in the forest sector
Project number:

TMT-PD 004/11 Rev.2 (M)Project country:

GuatemalaBudget:Total:

US$ 656,562

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 359,716

Government of Guatemala

US$ 270,278

IUCN

US$ 26,568

Submitted by:

Government of Guatemala

Implementing
agency:Instituto Nacional de Bosques (INAB)

Duration:

36 months (plus 10 months no-cost extension)

Financed at:

TMT 2 Cycle (2011)

Status:Ongoingnd

Summary:
In 2011 Guatemala completed the project PD 340/05 Rev.1 (M), which created the Forest Statistical Information
System of Guatemala (Sistema de Información Forestal de Guatemala—SIFGUA). In 2012, ITTO approved thissecond project with the aim of enhancing SIFGUA. The enhanced SIFGUA seeks to automate forest-related
processes, minimize response times, standardize forms, clarify procedures, avoid data duplication, minimize
human error, limit officers’ discretionary powers and bureaucracy, and meet the deadlines established by law toprocess requests and applications. This project is being implemented jointly by the National Council for Protected
Areas (Consejo Nacional de Áreas Protegidas, CONAP, the authority in charge of managing forests in naturalprotected areas) and the National Forest Institute (Instituto Nacional de Bosques, INAB, the authority in charge ofmanaging forests outside natural protected areas).
It consists a new portal for SIFGUA, plus of three information systems: 1) the Electronic Forest Enterprises
Information System (Sistema Electrónico de Información de Empresas Forestales—SEINEF); 2) the Electronic
Forest Administration System in Protected Areas (Sistema Electrónico de Administración Forestal en Áreas
Protegidas—SEAF-CONAP); and 3) the Electronic Forest Management System (Sistema Electrónico para laGestión Forestal—SEGEFOR—for forests outside protected areas).
Progress:
The first instalment of the project was done in January 2013 and the last instalment was sent on November 2015.
By now the project has achieved the following outputs:
Output 1, “There is a system to analyse and process SIFGUA's forest sector statistical data”The output has been completed, the new portal of SIFGUA is available at www.sifgua.org.gt and it
provides statistics on:o Forest covero Forest managemento Forest incentives
o Forest healtho Forest plantations
o Forest fires
o Foreign trade of forest products (timber and NTFPs)
o Domestic trade of forest products
o Forest enterpriseso Forest professionals (regents, technicians, etc.)

The new portal also handles personalized queries, creates reports and graphs in an intuitive manner.
SIFGUA gives proper recognition to ITTO.
Output 2, “Online forest product control system linked through SIFGUA to the various institutions associated with

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 67
legality monitoring”The output has been completed, the ‘electronic system of forest enterprises’ known as SEINEF is now
operational at available at www.seinef.inab.gob.gt. SEINEF registers monitors and controls the flow offorest products through companies that are legally established and registered with INAB. In addition the
raison d’être of SEINEF, was the standardization of a single timber transport document for the industry —the “company bill of transport” SEINEF generates this document electronically if the applicant meets
three requirements: 1) it should be an active, registered operator in INAB’s National Forest Registry; 2) itshould be up to date in the submission of quarterly reports; and 3) it should have a timber stock balanceon the basis of which the document may be issued. These three requirements ensure that INAB is able
to monitor the company bills of transport it issues, and they make it possible to follow a traceability
procedure to check irregularities at any stage of the process. Company bills of transport are numberedand have unique QR barcodes (machine-readable optical labels), and they are printed on special paperthat minimizes the potential for falsification. A direct benefit for businesses is a reduction in the time andcost of obtaining authorizations.

Output 3, “At least five forest management processes have been automated through SIFGUA”







The various components of forest management processes are under development, through the new
systems,
namelySEGEFOR(http://segefor.inab.gob.gt/)
andSEAF-CONAP(http://186.151.231.171/SEAF-CONAP/).
The aim of SEAF-CONAP and SEGEFOR is to automate various forest services provided by CONAP
and INAB in accordance with their legal mandates. SEAF-CONAP, which is managed by CONAP, isdesigned to automate forest harvesting permit operations in protected areas, the registration of
professionals developing management plans in protected areas, and the issuance of CITES [Convention
on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora] permits, among others.
SEGEFOR, which is managed by INAB, will automate services associated with forest harvesting, forest
incentives, the National Forest Registry, applications for company bills of transport, and export permit
applications for forests outside protected areas.
Like SIENEF, both systems will issue electronic transport documentation, and this process will facilitate
the automatic, real-time verification of stocks, progress in harvesting operations and on-the-roadmonitoring of timber shipments.
For the completion of this output an extension without additional funds was approved until the end of
November 2016.

Output 4: “Outreach plan”


Output completed, posters and banners have been printed. A video on SEINEF was produced in Spanish
andEnglishversions
andis available through ITTO’s YouTube channel at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ol2s7UGoB_k(for
Spanishversion)andhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyhZNKVYMqU (for English version). In addition the project has
made presentations at several international fora, including ITTC-50 in 2014, the World Forestry Congressin Durban South Africa in 2015, and the international workshop on “Innovative Technologies for Woodbased Products-Traceability and Supply Chain Transparency” in 2016, among others. Such
presentations have led to exchange of experiences with Honduras and Chile, as well as expressions ofinterest from other countries in Latin America for similar exchanges.

Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
Other donors have looked favorably at the outputs delivered under this project and have extended financial
support to INAB for further expansion of the electronic timber traceability systems. In particular, the European
Union (EU), through IUCN is financing a new module under SEINEF for auditing of forest enterprises. Other
donors which have approached INAB are FAO-FLEGT and the World Bank.
Other countries in the region, including Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Ecuador, Honduras, Mexico and Panama
have expressed interest in getting to know the system. An exchange of experiences has happened with Chile andHonduras.
SIFGUA is an important tool for all forest-sector stakeholders in Guatemala because it provides them with freeaccess to accurate, up-to-date information for forest-sector decision-making. In the longer term it should help
increase forest investment by improving data on the contributions of the forest sector to gross domestic product;

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 68
market trends; forest production; the socioeconomic impacts of forest activities; and the dynamics and legal originof forest products.
A comprehensive article on the implementation of this project was published in ITTO’s Tropical Forest Update
issue 24/1 in early 2015. The article is available at http://www.itto.int/tfu/id=4367.
This project worked closely with the recently completed project TFL-PD 024/10 Rev.2 (M) ‘Improvement of forest
law enforcement at the national level to promote forest governance in Guatemala’ and has been able to achieve
substantial results. The implementation of Electronic Information System for Forest Enterprises, SEINEF hasallowed the National Forest Institute to have positive impacts on the regulation and control of trade in forest
products.

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 69
Enhancing the Sustainable Management and Commercial Utilisation of the CITES-listed Species Cedrela
odorata (red cedar) in Guyana
Project number:

TMT-SPD 014/13 Rev.1 (M)Project country:

GuyanaBudget:Total:

US$ 239,765

ITTO Contribution:

US$ 136,640

Government of Guyana

US$ 103,125

Submitted by:

Government of Guyana

Implementing
agency:Guyana Forestry Commission, GFC

Duration:

18 months

Financed at:

TMT 4 Cycle (2013)

Status:Ongoingth

Summary:This project builds on Guyana’s efforts to develop and promote its lesser used species, as part of a multi-pronged
strategy for managing the country’s commercial forest estate sustainably. Specifically, the project will focus on theassessment, development, marketing and promotion of Cedrela odorata (locally known as red cedar). Historically,
Red Cedar has been a valuable timber, with a natural range covering Latin America, the Caribbean and SouthAmerica. Over-harvesting in some range countries in the region has meant that the species is now considered to
be vulnerable according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It is also listed on theConvention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) Appendix III for the countries of Brazil, Bolivia,
Columbia, Guatemala, and Peru. In Guyana, the species has not been used commercially to the same extent asin other range countries. This project will enable Guyana to undertake an assessment of its commercial forests todetermine the status of the species. The outputs from the resource assessment will be used to develop amanagement plan for the sustainable harvesting of red cedar, as well as develop the capacity of the industry toharvest, develop and market the species domestically and internationally; consistent with the objectives of CITES
Appendix III listing. Among the main expected outcomes of the project are completion of a resource assessmentof red cedar in Guyana’s commercial estate to establish the status of the species; informing a decision on thestatus of conservation and/or utilization of red cedar; development of capacity in Guyana for managing red cedar;development of a strategy for developing and commercializing CITES-listed species in Guyana including
statistical database; and developing markets for red cedar both locally and internationally in areas of added value
products.
This project was funded as part of the ITTO-CITES Programme.
Progress:
A consultant was hired and conducted an assessment of Red Cedar in Guyana gathering information from GFC
database and historical information available. Information/data was gathered in relation to the projectdeliverables. The review of the technical literature available on Red Cedar was completed. General information
on distribution, cover, density, size structure, regeneration dynamics and timber characteristics and uses of Red
Cedar were gathered from literature. Discussions with a number of stakeholders from both within the GFC andthe timber industry revealed that Red Cedar is considered to occur at low density; being estimated at less than 1
tree per 50 ha. The species is also considered not to occur in aggregate stands (clumps) such as for instancegreenheart, wallaba, mora and morabukea. In terms of site preference, it is suggested by some operators that the
species seems to prefer marsh or mora forest. Due to the low density (numbers per ha) of its occurrence anduncertainty about site preferences, it was decided to first explore existing resource assessment data. The
Resource Assessment and Forest Management Plan for the CITES-Listed Species Cedrela Odorata (Red Cedar)
In Guyana was completed. The Management Plan for the Red Cedar was also elaborated. In order to develop a
protocol framework for international trade of Red Cedar, CITES Appendix III listing requirements were examined.
Additionally, a review of CITES and protocols was completed. Protocols for International Trade relating to CITES
and Red Cedar have been developed and disseminated. Furthermore the process of collating market information
was advanced and the data analyzed. Production and export statistics for Red Cedar were provided for the period

ITTC(LII)/8
Page 70
2006-2015. Field visits were undertaken to the following sawmills/exporters: Barama Co. Ltd., Cummings Wood
Products, L.S. Harridat Sawmill, Bhola's Sawmill and S & M Bission Sawmiller. The latter two sawmillers havetheir own concessions. Cummings Wood Products and L.S. Harridat Sawmill procure Red Cedar from various
sources, many of those Amerindian communities.
The project has submitted its final report which has been posted on the ITTO-CITES Programme websitend(www.itto.int). If the financial audit is submitted prior to the 52 Council Session and deemed acceptable by the
Secretariat, this project may be considered complete.
Achievements, impacts and lessons learned:
The work under this project resulted in the completion of the first Resource Assessment and Forest Management
Plan for the CITES-Listed Species Cedrela odorata (Red Cedar) in Guyana. The report provides an overview ofthe population size, distribution, stand density, size structure, regeneration dynamics and possible strategy for thesustainable management of the timber species Cedrela odorata L. in Guyana. In Guyana the species is known
under the common name Red Cedar. Additionally, the Report also gives an overview of the application of CITES
rules regarding export of Red Cedar that explains the permitting process among other areas. The Report also
covers the characteristics of Red Cedar, summarizes the geographic distribution based on the findings of the
Resource Assessment, and the uses, population trends of the species. Further, the Report also includes anoutline of other aspects of the Resource Assessment that relates to the density and size classes, the volume andthe regeneration dynamics for sustainable production levels of Red Cedar. This aspect relates directly to theManagement Plan for the species. In addition, the pre-project has provided all of the necessary information
should Guyana decide to list Red Cedar in CITES Appendix III.

***