Now, the potential of the forests is being realized, and thousands of people in the area who depend almost entirely on forest products for their livelihoods are benefiting. They are producing and marketing products such as lumber, particle board, plywood, veneer, furniture and handicrafts. This project has also become a model for other forest bureaus in the country. Canada is assisting the countries of Southern Africa in their reforestation and forest management programs through the Tree Seed Centre Network Project. Training, appropriate technology and technical assistance are being provided to increase the capacity of national seed centres to collect, store and distribute tree seeds.
Forests are essential to economic development and the maintenance of all forms of life.
Future Directions Global interdependence is no longer a vague notion but a central fact in the life of every Canadian. As a recognized world leader in forest research, management and technology, Canada is well positioned to influence global efforts to stop forest degradation. The challenge that faces all nations with forest resources is to bring these efforts to a successful conclusion. The lessons learned over the past 30 years will have to be applied to create the best conditions for program success. That calls for a realistic integration of environmental considerations into industrial and commercial activities, production and consumption patterns and people's lives.