The objective of this conference is to highlight the true nature of the multiple values of forests in promoting sustainable development in order to determine the needed areas for future research and the gaps in forest management policies that need to be developed. Senior officials and eminent scholars will attend the conference from academia, international organizations, governments and civil society. Key issues to be discussed in the conference are the proposal for an international year of forests, future forest management practices and valuation and awareness building. A copy of the programme is attached . Simultaneous English and Japanese interpretation will be provided.
Forests are the haven for much of the world's genetic biodiversity.
Recent rapid deforestation is threatening not only biodiversity, but also the world's economy and in some instances its cultural heritage. Forests have virtually disappeared in 25 countries. The decline of forests is so relentless that some experts believe that the character of the planet and of human enterprise may change within a few years unless clear and concrete action is taken to save the world's forests. The UNU Public Affairs Section Tel.