Important ecosystem with distinct characteristics and adaptations
Face threats which need to be managed to ensure their survival
Sustainable management of tropical rainforests
1. Logging and replanting
2. Education
3. Ecotourism
4. International agreements
Logging and replanting
Selective logging of mature trees ensures the rainforest canopy is preserved
Allows the forest to recover as younger trees gain more space and sunlight to grow
Planned and controlled logging ensures for every tree logged another is planted
Education
Promoting the value and benefits of biodiversity associated with tropical rainforests
Ecotourism
Environmentally friendly tourism that creates jobs for local people whilst ensuring money generated is used to protect and conserve the tropical rainforest for future generations
International agreements
Debt-for-nature swaps where debt is cancelled if a country agrees to protect its tropical rainforests
Sustainable management in Malaysia
Public awareness of value of tropical rainforests increased through education
Local communities included and involved in forest conservation projects
Use of alternative timber sources such as rubber trees encouraged
Selective logging of mature and commercially viable trees over a 40-year cycle
Ecotourism promoted and developed in tropical rainforest areas
Permanent Forest Estates created where no change of land use is allowed
Creation of National Parks to protect biodiversity
