NGOs are often excluded from government decision-making, especially in countries with rigid and closed governmental processes. It is often difficult to convince decision makers to act on initiatives developed at the community level. Business and industry are often unwilling to become involved with sustainable development issues. Inequity at the local, national and global levels obstructs many efforts towards sustainable development. Political will is lacking in forestry issues.
Education is an important yet overlooked component of sustainable development.
Deregulation and globalization are increasing the power of transnational corporations and increasing the inequities between rich and poor. Lack of resources is an important limiting factor for NGOs. Better mechanisms should be developed for communicating local experiences to the global level and fostering learning. Capacity-building should occur in the government sector as well as in the NGO sector. Education and awareness-raising should play a larger role in sustainable development efforts.