Explainer, April 2021

Forests in ASEAN cover more than 193 million hectares, or 44% of the land area. Everyday, they play a vital role in our lives by contributing to national economic development and environmental stability.

Yet, forests in the region are threatened, and have declined by almost 7 million hectares, or 3.4%, since 2013, contributing to an alarming rate of loss of biodiversity, massive forest fires, pollution and climate change. Much of this has been undertaken at an industrial scale for agricultural and cash crop plantations.

This document gives key information and steps for lawmakers in Southeast Asia to ensure forest protection and management, and reduce pollution and climate impacts.

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