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20. Will the forests disappear? |
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Tonle Sap: Source of Lives
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After 20 years of political instability (1970-1990) Cambodia still had abundant forests. On the contrary, neighboring countries had already lost a big part of their forests due to massive exploitation. In the early 1990s, the government set up a system of private forestry concessions which led to a quick deterioration of the situation. Of the 10.5 million hectares in 1995: - 6.5 million hectares were handed over to private concessions for exploitation between 1994 and 1997, - 0.7 million hectares became agricultural concessions, - the remaining 3.3 million hectares were earmarked as protected areas (national parks, etc). Fortunately, since 1999 there has been some forestry sector reform. However, forestry concessions don't seem the best way to use Cambodia's forests for long-term administration and to assure vital resources for the local population. |
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Resin trees: an essential income for forest communities Resin trees mostly belong to the Dipterocarpus family (Tchoen tiel). The most commonly harvested species is the Dipterocarpus alatus (Tchoen tiel tock). A hole is made near the base of the trunk, then burnt to increase the production of resin. The resin accumulates in the hole and is collected about once a week. Each tree exploited yields 36,000 riels per year. Actually, due to its numerous qualities, the resin is not only used locally but also exported in large quantities to Vietnam and China. This forest product gives families a monthly income of 150,000 to 200,000 riels (US$38-50). For these families, the exploitation of resin trees is about their only financial resource, so it's vital for them. Their debt levels have also gone down. Unfortunately, forestry exploitation tends to endanger these trees. The wood sold represents only a small non-renewable income compared to the long-term exploitation of resin. Isn't it better to favor long-term management of the forest by its inhabitants, rather than seek short-term gain from massive exploitation? |
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Forestry communities: adapting management to the needs of the population The best way to protect and manage the forest on a long-term basis is to directly involve the people dependent on its resources. The principle of a forestry community is based on the inhabitants' participation. They should identify their needs and direct the exploitation accordingly. Thus, they will find the right balance between their daily needs and the long-term management of their environment. Women in particular must be involved in this project because they play an important role in the collection of forest products. To legitimize the community's actions, they must be supported by the national and local governments and forestry authorities. In technical areas the Forestry Department and NGOs can support their work and provide solutions adapted to their needs. In this way, the forestry communities will be able to enjoy their forests, while managing them and improving their standard of living. [next] |
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