The way forward

• Published in: FAO forestry paper no. 175; p. 117
• Main Author: Anon
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.01.2015
• ISSN: 0258-6150

The restoration of degraded forests and landscapes in drylands is needed more urgently than ever; indeed, it is essential if the global community is to meet the challenges posed by desertification, food insecurity, climate change and biodiversity loss, among other negative trends. The many efforts that have already been made -- with more or less success -- provide the lessons that underpin these guidelines. The restoration of drylands should be considered as a holistic process that includes a wide range of actions aimed at addressing multiple dimensions: policies, governance, the financial and technical capacity of organizations and individuals, and the design, management, monitoring and evaluation of restoration initiatives. It should be treated as part of broader ongoing, adaptive and multisectoral SLM strategies at the landscape level. Economic, social and environmental sustainability should be the ultimate aim of all restoration initiatives. Practitioners, policymakers and other decision-makers also need the help of networks, partners and donors to increase their technical and financial capacities.