Living Forests: Forest Conservation Actions in Asia/Pacific
8/30/99
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RELAYED TEXT STARTS HERE:
Title: Living Forests: Forest Conservation Actions in Asia/Pacific
Source: World Wide Fund for Nature
www.wwf.org
Status: Copyright 1999, contact source for permission to reprint
Date: 8/30/99
INTRODUCTION
"The forest is a peculiar organism of unlimited kindness and
benevolence that makes no demands for its sustenance and extends
generously the products of its live activity; it offers protection to
all beings offering shade even to those who destroy it," Buddha.
Forests are home to many important and spectacular wildlife, and in
some areas, to people. They are our source of food, medicine,
building materials for our homes, and resources for trade. We often
use the genetic materials that the forests hold to improve commercial
strains. Forests also provide us with a range of benefits which are
often difficult to quantify in financial terms. Besides protecting
soil and watersheds, forests also absorb carbon dioxide, the main
greenhouse gas which contributes to global warming. Other intangible
values of forests include recreational, aesthetic, historical,
cultural, educational and spiritual values.
Roughly 16 per cent of the world's forests, or about 565 million ha
of forests, are in Asia/Pacific. These forests harbour some of the
world's rarest and unique animals and plants -- the tiger, giant
panda, Asian elephant, orang utan, rhino, Rafflesia (the world's
biggest flower) and the many variety of orchids. Like much of the
forests elsewhere in the world, Asia/Pacific's forests are affected
by widespread deforestation and an overall loss of forest quality.
About 838,000 ha of the region's forests are lost annually to
deforestation and degradation.
In the Himalayan-Hindukush-Karakorum mountain region from Afghanistan
to Bangladesh, forests are being logged and degraded by excessive
grazing, fodder and fuelwood collection, and pressure from the influx
of refugees and political disturbance. In India and Nepal, the
lowland terai forests are rapidly being logged and cleared, often
illegally. China's forests have also been badly depleted and losses
continue, especially within Tibet. In the Philippines, rainforests
and mangroves are still being illegally logged despite already being
reduced to fragments. Forests in Indonesia too, are rapidly being
logged and cleared often to establish exotic plantations. In
addition, the country's forests have been burnt, much of this
occurring in Kalimantan with the worst occurring as recently as this
year, 1997. Data collected by local scientists estimate that this
year's fires have already burnt over 1.7 million hectares of forest
area. For more information on the Indonesian fires, see page 12.
In Thailand, forests have already been fragmented, and a Thai
Government logging ban has increased pressure on the forests of
neighbouring countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.
In the South Pacific, the forests of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon
Islands and Vanuatu are being logged, much of which illegally.
But the causes of forest destruction sometimes occur far away from
the forest itself. Key causes include world consumption of forest
products, servicing of international debt, and pressure from
structural adjustment, trade and development, population growth and
poverty. For instance, a substantial proportion of deforestation in
northeast Thailand between 1970 and 1990 could be attributed to
increased production of cassava, primarily for export to Europe as
animal feed. At the same time, Thailand's fodder base was being
reduced. Here, deforestation in northeast Thailand and European
subsidised agriculture and livestock's production policies have a
direct impact on the socio-ecological stability of northeast
Thailand's people and the natural resource base on which they
subsist.
WWF has a longstanding involvement in forest conservation dating back
to the organization's founding in 1961. Much of this work in
Asia/Pacific has focused on protected area management, from helping
the authorities to develop and implement management plans, to working
with local communities on alternative sustainable livelihood schemes.
While continuing with this theme, WWF projects will also centre
around high biodiversity areas, notably WWF Global 200 priority
ecoregions. The WWF Global 200 is a list of areas selected for their
importance for biodiversity conservation. It marks the first
comprehensive effort to include outstanding examples of the broad
range of the Earth's ecosystems.
WWF will also increasingly work on promoting trade and development
policies favouring sustainable resource use such as sustainable
forestry practices. Since the last two decades, Asia/Pacific has been
experiencing remarkable economic growth and development. This is
often at the expense of the environment, and pressure on natural
resources including forests. The challenge here is to ensure that
forests are conserved to serve nature as well as people both now and
in the future. The recent scientific discoveries of three new large
mammal species -- the saola, giant muntjac and Truong Son muntjac --
in Vietnam by WWF-sponsored field surveys amplify the need for
conservation of these forests before they are lost forever and with
them nature's secrets and our well-being.
This document outlines some of WWF's existing as well as proposed
forest conservation efforts in Asia/Pacific, both at the regional and
national levels. It is hoped that this document will provide WWF
fundraisers and potential donors with an overview of the
opportunities available for forest conservation in the region. For
more information, please contact the Asia/Pacific Programme, WWF
International, CH-1196 Gland, Switzerland, tel: +41-22 364 9111, fax:
+41-22 364 6624, e-mail: skchng@wwnet.org.
REGIONAL WWF ACTIONS
WWF's vast experience in forest conservation puts it in a good stead
to promote and magnify this activity throughout the region. The
organization will share its forest conservation experience with
international agencies, government departments, non-governmental
organizations, grassroots bodies, industries and corporations.
Besides helping to put WWF's viewpoints across to the various
sectors, this information sharing will result in a cross-
fertilization of ideas and ensure a continuous learning process. In
addition, WWF will also help build up local capacity in forest
conservation, particularly in social/community forestry. Another
important issue WWF will promote in the region is forest/timber
certification. One regional information workshop was held in Bogor,
Indonesia in October 1997, and more will be held if funds are
available. All these efforts will help in meeting WWF's "Forest for
Life!" campaign targets of having 10 per cent of the world's forest
area under protection, and 10 million ha of production forests
certified by the year 2000. A budget of some CHF 700,000 is required
annually.
Many plant and animal species in forest habitats are subject to
unsustainable levels of international trade. These species include
rhinos (rhino horn is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat
death-threatening fevers), several species of primates (in demand by
zoos and medical laboratories), parrots and other bird species (for
collections), and rare forest orchids (also for collections).
TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring arm of WWF and IUCN-The World
Conservation Union, has offices throughout Asia and the Pacific.
Their efforts contribute to the conservation of these forest
resources. TRAFFIC offices for Oceania, Southeast Asia, and East Asia
require a total annual budget of some CHF 1.5 million to carry out
their work.
WWF's Asia/Pacific strategic plan commits WWF to promote
transboundary conservation including the establishment of
transfrontier reserves. A transfrontier reserve is a protected area
that cuts across the borders of two or more countries. In some
instances, the area on one side of the border is already protected
whilst the area on the other side is not. The selection of these
transfrontier areas will be guided by the WWF Global 200 priority
ecoregions. Possible sites include the following:
* Himalayan Transfrontier Reserve, South Asia
The southern slopes of the Eastern Himalayas contain important
temperate forests spread across Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar and
Nepal. Listed as Global 200 site #79: Eastern Himalayan Temperate
Forests, these forests, stretching from the lowlands to the foothills
of the Himalayas in northern India and Bhutan, contain a huge and
diverse collection of plants and animals. Species found here include
the golden langur, Blyth's tragopan, lesser panda, takin, and
Himalayan black bear. Initial funding of some CHF 100,000 is required
to enable project planning.
* Borneo Transfrontier Reserves, Southeast Asia
The rainforests of Borneo are uniquely rich in tree species, equalled
only by parts of Amazona. They harbour species such as the clouded
leopard, proboscis monkey, orang utan, tarsier, and rhinoceros
hornbill. Since the late 1960s, the forests have been heavily logged.
In addition, in 1983, a huge area of over 8,000km2 of forest was
destroyed by fire and drought. There is urgent need to conserve the
remaining forested areas, some of which are shared by Indonesia and
Malaysia. These border areas are covered under two Global 200 sites,
#33: Central Borneo Montane Forests and #34: North Borneo Lowland &
Montane Forests. Site #33 includes the Lanjak Entimau Wildlife
Sanctuary in the East Malaysian state of Sarawak, and the Bentuang
Karimun Nature Reserve in Kalimantan, Indonesia. The two areas are
being developed as a transfrontier reserve. Lanjak Entimau, which WWF
helped establish, is already protected. The organization is currently
helping the Indonesian government to develop Bentuang Karimun into a
national park. This would ensure that other needs, such as
socioeconomic development of local and regional communities, are
accommodated in the conservation of the area. Global 200 site #34
includes the Kayan Mentarang Nature Reserve in Kalimantan, and the
Ulu Padas Forest Reserve in East Malaysia's Sabah. Substantial areas
of lowland rainforest, extensive mangroves, peat and freshwater swamp
forests, and the largest heath forests (kerangas) in southeast Asia
are found here. Much needs to be done on both sides before a
transfrontier reserve can be proposed. WWF is working with both
governments to conserve these two areas. An annual budget of some CHF
1 million is required each for Bentuang Karimun and Kayan Mentarang.
* Annamite Transfrontier Reserve, Southeast Asia
The Annamite Range in Laos and Vietnam has some of the last remaining
intact moist forests in Indochina. Listed as Global 200 site #26:
Annamite Range Moist Forests, these forests harbour some very rare
species including three large mammal species discovered in recent
years -- the saola, giant muntjac and Truong Son muntjac. Tigers are
also found here. WWF currently has projects in the Vu Quang Nature
Reserve and Bach Ma National Park, both in Vietnam. If funding is
available, WWF would be able to carry out protected area work across
the border in Laos. Budget required is CHF 600,000.
* Indochina Emerald Triangle Transfrontier Reserve, Southeast Asia
The forests bordering Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam have the second
highest level of mammal richness in Asia. They also rank high in
mammal, bird and plant endemism. Recent surveys have confirmed the
existence of an important tiger population. WWF has initiated some
work on protected area planning and community conservation at
Vietnam's Mom Ray Nature Reserve. An annual budget of some CHF 1.5
million will be required to extend this work in Cambodia and Laos to
help conserve these forests, which are part of Global 200 site #59:
Eastern Indochina Dry & Monsoon Forests.
* New Guinea Mangrove Transfrontier Reserve, South Pacific
Papua New Guinea and Indonesia's Irian Jaya share one of the largest
mangrove areas in the world. This mangrove belt has been identified
as Global 200 site #188: New Guinea Mangroves. Many unique species
occur here including the black palm cockatoo, cassowary and saltwater
crocodile. The mangroves in Irian Jaya, however, have recently come
under threat of exploitation to provide wood chips. WWF has carried
out initial work to help establish a transfrontier reserve here
comprising Indonesia's Wasur National Park and Papua New Guinea's
Tonda Wildlife Management Area. When established, the transfrontier
reserve will be the island of New Guinea's first cross-border
conservation area covering one million ha of wetland, savanna and
marine habitats. An annual budget of CHF 1 million is required to
enable protected area work on both sides of the border.
In addition to transborder conservation, WWF can also link forest
conservation to the proposed "Living River Campaigns", a new
initiative under the organization's freshwater conservation
programme, which includes watershed management. Three candidate sites
in Asia have been proposed. These sites are described as follows:
* Indus Living River Campaign, South Asia
The Indus river is listed as Global 200 site #187: Indus River Delta
& Rann of Kutch. The delta is important for mangrove conservation,
and the health of the river system depends on the maintenance of
forested catchment areas on the slopes of the Hindukush-Karakorum
mountain range. Harbouring many endemic plant species, these
catchment areas are subjected to intensive deforestation. These areas
are also part of another Global 200 site, #76: Western Himalayan
Temperate Forests.
* Mekong Living River Campaign, Southeast Asia
The Mekong river basin is included in two Global 200 sites, #158:
Mekong & Salween River Basins and #184: Mekong River Delta Mangroves.
The Mekong river has the most diverse and distinctive large river
fauna of tropical Asia. Some unusual species found here include the
giant Mekong catfish and the eastern Saurus crane. Sadly, the 7 river
is threatened by a variety of development initiatives including dam
projects. Besides addressing these threats, action is also needed to
conserve the watershed areas which extend into many countries
including Cambodia, China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam.
Additional support is also needed to conserve and restore the
mangroves of the Mekong Delta. Large tracts of these mangroves were
nearly destroyed during the Vietnam War by napalm and defoliants like
Agent Orange, and more recently by farmers migrating to the area.
Conservation and restoration efforts by the Government of Vietnam
have already led to successful reestablishment of thousands of
hectares of mangrove forests, which now supply fuelwood, fish, and
prawns. Many birds have also returned.
* Irrawaddy Living River Campaign, Southeast Asia
The forests which form the catchment area and at the upper reaches of
Myanmar's Irrawaddy River fall under two Global 200 sites, #38:
Northern Indochina Subtropical Moist Forests and #40: Northeastern
India & Myanmar Hill Forests. The forests of northern Indochina are
regarded as Asia's richest remaining subtropical forests. They rank
second highest for mammal diversity on the continent, and are also
high in mammal, bird and plant endemism. The northeastern India and
Myanmar hill forests have one of Asia's richest mammal fauna as well
as the largest number of endemic bird species and overall bird
diversity. Before WWF can initiate a living river campaign in
Myanmar, it has to conduct a feasibility study in view of the
country's current complex political situation.
NATIONAL WWF ACTIONS
Under WWF's Asia/Pacific Strategic Plan, each country programme will
set up an "ecological network of well-managed protected areas
covering at least 10% of existing forest areas". They will also
ensure environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and
economically viable forest management outside protected areas. These
actions will be based on the concept of an integrated conservation
and development programme (ICDP) implying a strong commitment to
community/social forestry activities. Additionally, as many of the
causes of forest destruction originate far away from the forest
itself, WWF will also address these root causes. The organization
will promote policies that minimize pollution and wasteful
consumption, address macro-economic forces such as international debt
and structural adjustment, population growth, poverty, and land
tenure systems. This work will be integrated in WWF's area-based
projects wherever possible. WWF will focus its resources on one or
two Global 200 sites in each country and develop these into truly
multi-disciplinary ICDPs.
Bhutan
WWF has made significant contributions to forest conservation in
Bhutan. It has helped the government revise Bhutan's Forest and
Conservation Act, which now provides for long-term nature
conservation, including provisions for protected area management. WWF
has provided support to the Royal Manas National Park, Jigme Dorji
Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Black Mountains National Park. WWF will
continue to focus on Manas, and a new area, the Phipsoo Wildlife
Sanctuary. These areas are part of Global 200 site #79: Eastern
Himalayan Temperate Forests, which covers forested areas in Bhutan,
China, India, Nepal and Myanmar. Stretching from the lowlands to the
foothills of the Himalayas in northern India and Bhutan, these
forests contain a huge and diverse collection of plants and animals.
8 Species found here include the golden langur, Blyth's tragopan,
lesser panda, takin, and Himalayan black bear. Tigers also occur in
Manas. Steps are currently taken to develop a collaboration between
the park and the adjacent Manas Tiger Reserve in India. Further
development of Phipsoo and Manas requires an annual budget of some
CHF 250,000. It is likely that the Dutch Government will provide
funding.
China
WWF's involvement in forest conservation in China started with its
Giant Panda conservation programme in the 1980s. Several panda
reserves are located in the Global 200 site #78: Sichuan/Yunnan
Temperate Forests. These forests are ranked among the world's top
five richest temperate forests in terms of species diversity and
endemism. Rhododendrons are particularly diverse here. These forests
are, however, threatened by expanding agriculture, demand for timber,
and unsustainable lifestyles. The Giant Panda programme has received
a large amount of funds from WWF Netherlands. But funding for FY1999
and beyond is needed for initiating ICDP activities in and around
selected panda reserves, particularly in Pingwu County in northern
Sichuan. Annual budget required is some CHF 1 million per site.
WWF has also worked extensively on forest conservation in Yunnan
Province's Xishuangbanna Nature Reserve with support from the
European Union (EU), Britain and Norway's aid agencies. Included in
Global 200 site #38: Northern Indochina Subtropical Moist Forests,
Xishuangbanna ranks second highest in mammal diversity in Asia. It
also has some of the highest levels of mammal, bird and plant
endemism on the continent. WWF was successful in raising awareness
and understanding of the need for integrating protected area work
with development activities for local communities here. This approach
has subsequently been adopted on a large scale with international
support from the EU and the Dutch and German governments to the
Yunnan provincial government. WWF is currently focusing attention on
other ecologically and economically valuable forest areas in western
Yunnan, particularly Deqin County and Baimaxueshan Nature Reserve. An
annual budget of some CHF 1 million is required for forest
conservation work, including initiating an ICDP, in western Yunnan.
Timber consumption in China has impacts on the country's forests, and
increasingly those overseas. It is predicted that China will become a
major importer of tropical timber trade over the next 10-20 years.
The trade in timber and other forest products is a little understood
sector with massive implications for biodiversity conservation and
sustainable utilization. WWF will explore the mechanisms and scale of
this trade. It will look into introducing forest certification and
other market-based conservation initiatives with China's Ministry of
Forestry and other relevant authorities. Budget required is CHF
250,000.
India
WWF India's forestry programme recognizes that in India, conservation
of forest biodiversity and survival strategies of people, especially
the country's poorest 300 million, are inseparably linked. This has
led the organization to adopt "participatory forest management" as a
major component in its forestry programme. The programme tracks 9
forestry related issues and developments, and provides research
support to policy debate aimed at establishing positive policies and
at opposing negative developments. By networking with other NGOs and
interested individuals, WWF has successfully campaigned against the
Government of India for leasing forest lands to industry.
Several WWF's forest projects in India are at areas in Global 200
sites. One, the Western Ghats represent an important Global 200 site,
#27: Western Ghats Moist Forests. Fringing the coast of the Arabian
Sea, the area contains one of India's last remaining tropical
rainforests. It supports an enormous number of tree species,
including 13 species of dipterocarp and the huge, commercially and
ecologically valuable hardwood trees. Though it occupies only 5 per
cent of India's land area, the Western Ghats contain over 4,000
species of higher plants, or more than a quarter of the country's
total higher plant species. Wildlife species found here include an
endangered goat-antelope, the Nilgiri tahr, and the lion-tailed
macaque, one of the few mammal species endemic to the southern Indian
rainforests. Despite its biodiversity importance, the area is under
threat, mainly from logging, agriculture and urban expansion. WWF has
initiated conservation activities in the Western Ghats under its
"Biodiversity Hotspots" project funded by the MacArthur Foundation.
If funds are forthcoming, WWF could consider initiating an ICDP in
the area. Annual budget required is CHF 500,000.
Another area which receives support under the Biodiversity Hotspots
project is the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal. Rich in tropical
evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist monsoon forests, the islands have
been listed as Global 200 site #41: Andaman Islands Forests. Since
1960, the islands' human population has quadrupled, and forestry
activities have disturbed much of the natural vegetation. The
interior, however, remains relatively undisturbed. WWF could
undertake an ICDP here if funding is forthcoming. Annual budget
required is CHF 500,000.
The Northeast Indian States, notably Assam and Meghalaya, represent
another biodiversity "hotspot" area which is included in Global 200
site #79: Eastern Himalayan Temperate Forests. The area, which
includes Manas Tiger Reserve, has one of Asia's richest mammal fauna
with tigers, elephants and Great Indian rhinos. It also has the
highest number of endemic bird species and overall bird diversity in
Asia. WWF is already working in Manas and further support is expected
under the organization's Global Tiger Action Plan. There is a
possibility to obtain funding from the Netherlands aid agency for
long term protection of the area, including initiating an ICDP. There
are also opportunities to establish a transfrontier reserve with the
adjacent Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan (see "National WWF
Actions: Bhutan"). An annual budget of CHF 800,000 is required for
Manas Tiger Reserve.
The Eastern Ghats are also part of a Global 200 site, #61: Eastern
Indian Monsoon Forests. Unlike the Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats
is not a mountain range but rather the broken and weathered relics of
the peninsular plateau, marked by a series of isolated hills. During
the last Ice Age, the area served as a refuge for wildlife, many of
which have today evolved into rare and endemic species. The area also
contains several important tiger reserves, and holds some of India's
last wild Asian elephant populations. Support for 10 conservation in
this area may be forthcoming under WWF's Global Tiger Action Plan.
Indochina
WWF's Indochina Programme currently oversees conservation activities
in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. The extent of each
country programme varies from country to country. Brief descriptions
of forest conservation priorities in each of these countries follow.
Cambodia
WWF has had little involvement in Cambodia until 1995 when it
appointed a technical adviser based in Phnom Penh to assist the
Ministry of Environment in biodiversity conservation. There are
several Global 200 sites which may present conservation
opportunities. One is site #158: Mekong & Salween River Basins which
covers Virachay National Park and other potential protected areas in
Rattanakiri Province. Together, these forested areas constitute a
significant part of the Mekong watershed and are important for
biodiversity conservation; wildlife found here include the tiger,
elephant and wild cattle. Virachay also borders the forests of Laos
and Vietnam, which together are part of Global 200 site #59: Eastern
Indochina Dry & Monsoon Forests. Seen as the most diverse monsoon and
dry forest area in Asia, these forests support varied and abundant
wildlife including a number of threatened species. WWF has initiated
some work on protected area planning and community conservation at
Vietnam's Mom Ray Nature Reserve. An annual budget of some CHF 1.5
million is required to initiate further work in Cambodia and adjacent
Laos.
Laos
As mentioned under "Regional WWF Actions", there is a Global 200
site, #26: Annamite Range Moist Forests, covering Laos, Thailand and
Vietnam which could qualify as a transfrontier reserve. This border
area has relatively intact moist forests and harbours some very rare
species including the saola, giant muntjac and the Truong Son
muntjac, a new species discovered only in April 1997. Tigers also
occur here. A budget of CHF 600,000 is required to implement
protected area work in Laos.
Another area, Xe Piane, could also become part of a transfrontier
reserve with Cambodia and Vietnam. These forests are part of Global
200 site #59: Eastern Indochina Dry & Monsoon Forests. See Cambodia
section for more information. An annual budget of CHF 1.5 million is
required to initiate protected area work in Laos and Cambodia. Most
of the hilly border areas between Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam are also
part of the Mekong watershed. They are part of Global 200 site #158:
Mekong & Salween River Basins. Conservation of these areas could come
under the proposed Mekong Living River Campaign (see "Regional WWF
Actions").
Myanmar
WWF has had no involvement in Myanmar apart from supporting training
of local conservationists. If WWF decides to expand its support to
include field activities, it may consider initiating an Irrawaddy
Living River Campaign as mentioned in "Regional WWF Actions". Also
worth investigating are areas included in Global 200 site #29: Kayah-
Karen/Tenasserim Moist Forests; #38: North Indochina Subtropical
Moist Forests; #40: Northeastern India & Myanmar Hill Forests; and
#79: Eastern Himalayan Temperate Forests. Before WWF can initiate any
conservation work in Myanmar, it has to conduct a feasibility study
in view of the complex political situation.
Thailand
In Thailand, WWF is supporting several important forest projects
including the Huai Kha Khaeng/Thung Yai and Western Isan forest
complexes. Bordering Myanmar and covering some 6,000km2, the Huai Kha
Khaeng/Thung Yai wildlife sanctuaries represent the largest protected
area in mainland southeast Asia. A World Heritage Site, these two
sanctuaries hold a distinct fauna characteristic of the Malay
archipelago, central Indochina, and the mountains of China and India;
they contain one of Asia's richest mammalian fauna, and a rich
diversity of bird species and amphibians. More than 400 species of
birds and over 80 species of larger mammals have been recorded here.
These species include the tiger, Asian elephant, Alexandrine
parakeet, slow loris, and great hornbill. The sanctuaries also serve
as important water catchments for several major reservoirs and
hydropower and irrigation projects. Although both are gazetted
wildlife sanctuaries, they are threatened by human encroachment,
poaching and forest fires. WWF uses a multifaceted approach in its
conservation of the two sanctuaries. Activities include development
of an effective bufferzone management plan, and promotion of
conservation awareness. Annual budget required is CHF 800,000. The
Netherlands and Denmark's aid agencies may provide funding.
At Western Isan, which is part of two Global 200 sites, #158: Mekong
& Salween River Basins and #38: North Indochina Subtropical Moist
Forests, WWF is initiating integrated conservation and community
development activities as well as reforestation efforts. Rich in
biodiversity, Western Isan's forests harbour rare species including
the Sumatran rhino -- it is the last stronghold of the Sumatran rhino
in Thailand -- and an estimated 420 elephants or 25 per cent of
Thailand's wild elephant population. Western Isan is also an
important centre of orchid diversity, with over 200 species recorded
so far, and many of them are endemic. Besides supplying the villagers
with fuelwood, animal protein and medicinal herbs, the forests are
also the only watershed for rivers supplying water to 10 million
people in 10 provinces of central Isan. These rivers include one of
the Mekong's major tributaries. WWF's work here could be part of the
proposed Mekong Living River Campaign mentioned in "Regional WWF
Actions". Annual budget required is some CHF 800,000.
Vietnam
WWF's portfolio of forest projects in Vietnam includes conservation
of the Vu Quang Nature Reserve and Cat Tien National Park. Part of
Global 200 site #26: Annamite Range Moist Forests, world-renowned Vu
Quang harbours some very rare species including the tiger, and the
newly discovered saola and giant muntjac. The Netherlands Government
is providing funds to WWF to implement an ICDP in Vu Quang. The
Netherlands Government is also providing funds for a similar WWF
project at Cat Tien. Part of Global 200 site #59: Eastern Indochina
Dry & Monsoon Forests, Cat Tien'smonsoon forests support a varied and
abundant wildlife, a number of which are threatened. The most
prominent species is the Javan rhino; Cat Tien is the only place in
the world besides Indonesia's Ujung Kulon which harbours this
species. Logging, clearing for agriculture, and intensive hunting of
wildlife are some of the threats facing Cat Tien. Another reserve
which is a high priority for WWF in Vietnam is the Mom Ray Nature
Reserve. Also part of Global 200 site #59, Mom Ray is in the so-
called Indochina Emerald Triangle, a significantly large proposed
transfrontier conservation area bordering Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.
Mom Ray alone has a total of 80 mammal species including tigers,
elephants and gibbons, and 200 bird species. WWF has initiated some
work on protected area planning and community conservation. The
organization hopes to receive substantial funding from development
aid sources to engage in a long-term ICDP in the area, which is also
an important watershed for some of the Mekong's major tributaries.
The work could be part of the proposed Mekong Living River Campaign
(see "Regional WWF Actions"). Annual budget required is some CHF 1
million.
Indonesia
WWF has been involved in forest conservation in Indonesia since 1962,
shortly after the organization was established. Major protected areas
which received WWF support include Gunung Leuser, Kerinci-Seblat,
Seberida and Way Kambas in Sumatra; Tanjung Puting, Kutai, Kayan
Mentarang and Bentuang Karimun in Kalimantan; Ujung Kulon and Meru
Betiri in Java; Lore Lindu, Dumoga and Tangkoko Batuangus in
Sulawesi; and Arfak, Cyclops, Wasur and Lorentz in Irian Jaya. Almost
all these areas fall within the 12 Global 200 forest sites covering
Indonesia.
The Gunung Leuser National Park and the Mentawai Islands are part of
Global 200 site #31: Sumatran-Nicobar Islands Lowland Forests. This
area has highly diverse forests including extensive limestone
forests, and is high in species endemism. It is also important for
the conservation of several species of special concern including the
Sumatran tiger, Sumatran rhino, Asian elephant, and orang utan. Some
65 to 80 per cent of these forests have already been lost to
agriculture and logging. For instance, vast stands of ironwood, a
species highly valued for its exceptional durable timber, which are
found on the flat lowlands of southern Sumatra, have almost entirely
been destroyed. The Mentawai Islands, just west of Sumatra, have
similarly but more intact forests. These too are threatened by
agriculture. With the EU already funding conservation efforts at
Gunung Leuser, WWF could consider working in another protected area
in this ecoregion, possibly Siberut, where there are at least four
endemic primate species including the Kloss's gibbon. Annual budget
for an ICDP is some CHF 1 million.
The Kerinci-Seblat National Park in Sumatra's Bukit Barisan range is
included in Global 200 site #32: Sumatran Montane Forests. High in
species richness and endemism, the area is being threatened by
deforestation and agricultural developments such as conversion to
rubber and oil palm plantations and spread of cinnamon cultivation,
as well as transmigration projects. Tigers, Sumatran rhinos, and
Sumatran elephants are found here. The World Bank is currently
supporting WWF's work in Kerinci-Seblat. Long term support is,
however, needed. Annual budget required is some CHF 1 million.
Indonesian Fires (To be boxed and placed next to Indonesian text)
For the last five months of 1997, fires have swept throughout the
Indonesian archipelago, especially in southern Sumatra, west and
central Kalimantan, and parts of Irian Jaya. While fires have
occurred in the past, the scale and frequency in which they occur
since the 1980s indicate that the problem is aggravating. Data
collected by local scientists estimate that this year's fires have
burnt over 1.7 million ha of forest area. The fires have resulted in
a choking haze that blanketed much of southeast Asia, causing health
problems to millions of people living in the region. Thousands are
suffering from respiratory infections, and deaths have also occurred.
Billions of dollars were lost as schools, factories, airports and
shipping lanes closed, and road traffic disrupted. Tourist arrivals
also fell, and with reduced sunlight, crops are affected. Wildlife
has also been affected, trapped in the inferno or doomed as a result
of further habitat loss. Species at risk include the orang utan,
Javan and Sumatran rhinos, Sumatran tiger, Asian elephant, and sun
bear. Other less apparent, but equally grave, consequences of the
fires are destruction of fisheries and corals, and perhaps even
climate change.
Eighty per cent of the fires are said by Indonesia's Minister for the
Environment, to have been caused by companies burning previously
forested areas as a cheap method of land-clearing, for oil palm,
timber and industrial pulpwood plantations. The El Nino phenomenon,
responsible for bringing an extended dry season and drought to
Indonesia, exacerbated the problem causing the fires to spread and
rage out of control. Throughout the crisis, WWF has maintained an
active presence, providing the Indonesian government with support,
including geographical information systems (GIS) equipment and
personnel to monitor the fires. Both WWF Indonesia and Malaysia have
been straining under limited resources to keep the public informed of
the extent of the fires and their impact. While the immediate crisis
may be over, much still needs to be done. WWF has developed a package
of projects aimed at providing emergency relief to both people and
wildlife, researching into the causes and impacts of the forest
fires, including economic impact, communicating to the public and
policy makers, and devising long term strategies for forest fire
prevention, ecological restoration and monitoring, and lobbying for
policy reform. WWF believes that fundamental changes in policies,
practices, and public attitudes are necessary to prevent a recurrence
of the problem. The organization had, in a statement in October,
urged the governments of ASEAN (Association of South East Asian
Nations) to implement a Regional Fire Prevention and Control
Strategy. Funds are required to implement these projects.
The Kayan Mentarang and Bentuang Karimun nature reserves in
Kalimantan are part of Global 200 site #34: North Borneo Lowland &
Montane Forests and #33: Central Borneo Montane Forests respectively.
Kayan Mentarang contains the largest unbroken stretch of protected
rainforest in Borneo, and is an important refuge for numerous
species, particularly rare and endemic ones. Bentuang Karimun, which
together with the Malaysian state of Sarawak's Lanjak Entimau
Wildlife Sanctuary will form one of the world's biggesttransfrontier
protected areas, consists of several types of ecosystems. These
include lowland dipterocarp forest, wet hill forest, montane forest,
swamp forests, and moss forest with patches of limestone
outcroppings. Wildlife species found here include the clouded
leopard, proboscis monkey, orang utan, tarsier, and several species
of hornbill. WWF is currently receiving funding from the Danish
Government and the International Timber Trade Organization (ITTO) for
conservation of Kayan Mentarang and Bentuang Karimun respectively.
However, long-term funding of annual budget of CHF 1 million is
required for each site. If an additional amount of CHF 1 million is
available annually, WWF can implement another ICDP in a third site
further to the south of these two reserves thereby helping to protect
the full range of this area's unique biodiversity.
WWF Netherlands is currently providing funding support for
conservation work in Irian Jaya, in particular the proposed Lorentz
National Park, Arfak Mountains Nature Reserve, and Wasur National
Park. These protected areas are included in several Global 200 sites,
including #48: New Guinea Montane Forests, #49: New Guinea Lowland
Forests and #188: New Guinea Mangroves. These areas hold many unique
species, including numerous birds, marsupial mammals, insects, and
flowering plants. The bird fauna is one of the richest and most
varied in the world, with species such as the King bird of paradise,
and Wilson's bird of paradise. The forests also support about 200
species of mammals, including the Doria's and Goodfellow's tree
kangaroo, Papuan forest wallaby, and black capped lory. There are
over 1,200 species of trees, and about 2,000 ferns. The world's
largest butterfly, the Queen Alexandra's birdwing, is also found
here. Lorentz has a range of habitat types including Indonesia's
highest mountain peak, Mt Lorentz. WWF has been involved in surveys
and community conservation activities in Lorentz for several years
but this project has received a setback in 1996 when a scientific
team including WWF project personnel were taken hostage. An annual
budget of some CHF 500,000 will be needed to sustain this project in
the coming years. The Arfak project in Irian Jaya's "bird's head" has
also been supported by WWF for several years. The project is well
known for its successful community-based butterfly farming
initiatives. WWF US's Biodiversity Support Program is currently
helping with the development of community-based marketing enterprises
in this nature reserve. An annual budget of CHF 200,000 is required.
The Wasur project in the south of Irian Jaya is important for
conservation of both lowland forests and mangroves. It is part of
Global 200 site #188: New Guinea Mangroves, which is the largest
mangrove area in the world. The area contains many unusual species
such as the black palm cockatoo, cassowary, and saltwater crocodile.
The mangroves have recently come under threat of exploitation, and
possible destruction, to provide wood chips. Wasur has been proposed
as a potential transfrontier reserve with the neighbouring Papua New
Guinea's Tonda Wildlife management area. An annual budget of CHF 1
million is needed to enable further protected area work in Wasur and
Tonda.
Two Global 200 sites where WWF currently does not have projects but
could consider starting, are site #36: Sulawesi Moist Forests and
#37: Moluccas Moist Forests. TheSulawesi site has the highest levels
of mammal, bird and plant endemism in Asia. While many of Indonesia's
larger islands suffer from deforestation, Sulawesi still supports
extensive tracts of both montane and lowland moist forests. The
island's steep slopes and lack of commercially valuable tree species
help ensure its extensive forest cover of over 60 per cent. Species
found here include the unusual Sulawesi wild pig or babirusa, black-
crested macaque, Sulawesi hornbill, and Sulawesi tree nymph
butterfly. The Moluccas site is also important for biodiversity
conservation. Part of a biogeographical zone called Wallacea, the
Moluccas archipelago contains a curious mixture of Asian and
Australian fauna including macaques, tarsiers, squirrels, and
cuscuses. Located between the islands of Sulawesi and New Guinea, the
archipelago ranks highest in the world for bird endemism. Many
interesting species of cockatoos and parrots are found here. Eighty
per cent of Moluccas are under forest cover; the islands, ranging in
size from 18,000Km2 to only a few hectares, and some of which are
uninhabited, have a total of about 56,000Km2 of lowland and montane
rainforests. In view of the biodiversity importance of Sulawesi and
the Moluccas, WWF could consider engaging a new ICDP initiative in
either of the two ecoregions or both. A budget of CHF 100,000 is
needed for a feasibility study and project identification mission,
and implementation of an ICDP would require an annual budget of CHF 1
million per site.
Malaysia
WWF Malaysia has a long history of forest conservation with numerous
forest-related projects. Amongst the protected areas the organization
has supported in their establishment and management are Endau Rompin
National Park and Taman Negara in Peninsular Malaysia; Bako National
Park, Samunsam Wildlife Sanctuary and Lanjak Entimau Wildlife
Sanctuary in Sarawak; and Danum Valley and Tabin Wildlife Reserve in
Sabah. Additionally, WWF has provided indirect support by providing
input in the development of conservation strategies for numerous
states. Today, WWF is providing research and technical support to
establish the Nakawan National Park in Peninsular Malaysia, as well
as identify potential protected areas in the highland forests of the
Peninsula and moist forests of Sabah.
The Nakawan Range in Perlis, the most northern state in Peninsular
Malaysia, is the longest known continuous limestone range in
Malaysia. The range supports a diversity of habitats including
lowland forest, white-Meranti Gerutu seasonal forest, secondary
Schima-bamboo forest, and limestone forest. The white-Meranti Gerutu
is the natural vegetation of the Range and is not found outside
Malaysia, extreme southern Thailand and Indonesia. The Schima-bamboo
forest is the predominant secondary forest vegetation, and is unique
to Peninsular Malaysia. In addition, the limestone flora of the Range
includes many endemic species, of which five to eight are endemic to
Perlis. Much of the forests has been disturbed by logging,
agriculture and burning. An annual budget of CHF 700,000 is required
to implement an integrated management plan for the proposed park.
This will enhance the establishment of a transfrontier reserve with
Thailand's Thaleban National Park.
Also in Peninsular Malaysia, WWF is engaged in a project which aims
to promote the sustainable use of the montane forests of the main
range. WWF works to raise awareness ofconservation and development
issues as well as strengthening protection of the highland reserves.
Part of Global 200 site #30: Peninsular Malaysian Lowland & Montane
Forests, these forests have a rich flora and fauna. With about 200
species of mammals, including the Indochina tiger, Asian elephant,
and 81 bat species, the forests have one of the richest diversity of
mammalian fauna in Asia. They are also home to 110 species of snakes,
thousands of insect species, and a rich diversity of birds. There are
also about 8,000 species of plants. An annual budget of CHF 700,000
is required.
In Sabah, WWF works to ensure the long term conservation of the
Kinabatangan area. This area is included in two Global 200 sites,
#34: North Borneo Lowland & Montane Forests and #148: Sundaland
Rivers & Swamps. Kinabatangan represents one of the largest remaining
forested river floodplains in Malaysia. It has great biological
importance, containing breeding populations of many increasingly
endangered species of birds, mammals and reptiles. Its populations of
proboscis monkeys, orang utans and Asian elephants, as well as
rhinoceros hornbills and kingfishers, are a tourist draw. Major
threats to the area include habitat conversion for oil palm
plantations, and inappropriate tourism practices. WWF's Kinabatangan
project seeks to introduce sustainable community development schemes,
environmentally sound tourism management strategies, and forest
rehabilitation. It has already been proposed as a "model wetland
project" to be funded by WWF Netherlands. Annual budget required is
about CHF 1 million.
Nepal
WWF has supported several forest related projects in Nepal including
Annapurna Conservation Area, Royal Bardia National Park, Royal
Chitwan National Park, and Sagarmatha National Park. These protected
areas are all part of Global 200 sites, and much of WWF's efforts
includes agroforestry and reforestation. Both have been successful.
For instance, WWF has achieved 95 per cent success with its
agroforestry programme in Sagarmatha.
While WWF has stopped its support to Annapurna, after having
established a successful model sustainable ICDP, the organization
will continue supporting Bardia, Chitwan and Sagarmatha. At Royal
Bardia National Park, WWF has recently started implementation of a
major ICDP with an annual budget of CHF 400,000 provided by the Dutch
Government. The park contains rare animals including the greater one-
horned rhino, tiger, Asian elephant, clouded leopard, Gangetic
dolphin, black buck, gharial, and sloth bear. The park is an
important freshwater site, unique for its alluvial grassland
communities. Part of Global 200 site #105: Terai-Duar Savannas &
Grasslands, the park is threatened by modern development encroaching
on its periphery.
WWF has also recently developed a project in Kanchenjunga, an
important watershed for the tributaries of the Ganges river. Part of
Global 200 site #95: Eastern Himalayan Alpine Meadows, Kanchenjunga
was declared a Gift to the Earth in April 1997. (Gifts to the Earth
is an exciting new initiative under WWF's Living Planet Campaign
allowing everyone, from individuals to governments, to help achieve
conservation goals.) The area encompasses the rich forest of the
endangered Himalayan larch mixed with Abies species. It also has a
high density of glaciers including one of the longest in the world,
theKanchenjunga glacier. The 8,586m-high Mt Kanchenjunga is the
world's third highest.
WWF hopes to implement a model ICDP in the Kanchenjunga Conservation
Area with the International Centre for Integrated Mountain
Development (ICIMOD) and the Netherlands' volunteer organization,
SNV. Annual required budget is CHF 500,000. The Dutch Government is
likely to fund this project.
Pakistan
In Pakistan where forest cover is limited, WWF has supported
relatively few forest related projects. These projects are at Kaghan
Valley, Suleiman Mountains, and Palas Valley. These areas are
included in Global 200 site #76: Western Himalayan Temperate Forests.
This site, particularly the Palas Valley, contains numerous endemic
plant species. In addition, the forests, particularly those in the
Hindukush-Karakorum mountain range, are also important to maintaining
the Indus river system. Much of these forests is threatened by
logging, conversion to agriculture, and fuelwood collection. WWF is
already engaged in community-based conservation activities in these
areas and may expand into Azad Jammu and Kashmir. An annual budget of
CHF 500,000 is required for implementation of a model ICDP at each
additional site. Some of these conservation initiatives, particularly
those in the Indus river watersheds, can be part of a "Living River
Campaign" as mentioned under "Regional WWF Actions".
WWF is also involved in mangrove conservation in Pakistan, with a
major project at Sindh and Baluchistan. This project includes
mangrove restoration programmes involving local communities, and
promotion of conservation awareness. An annual budget of CHF 600,000
is being provided by the Dutch Government. If additional funds are
forthcoming, WWF would like to initiate integrated conservation and
development activities in the mangrove areas upstream of the Indus
river. A Global 200 site (#187: Indus River Delta & Rann of Kutch),
the Indus delta is important for mangrove conservation. Annual budget
required is CHF 500,000. These activities can also be part of the
Indus Living River Campaign.
Philippines
The forests of the Philippines are listed as Global 200 site #35:
Philippine Moist Forests. These forests support a rich and diverse
flora and fauna. Of the roughly 12,000 species of plants and fungi
found in these forests, about 3,500 are endemic. The forests are also
high in species endemism, particularly mammal, bird, amphibian, and
reptile. Most of these forests and their species are severely
threatened by extensive habitat degradation and loss due to logging,
agriculture, and soil erosion. One of the largest forest conservation
projects in the Philippines is the National Integrated Protected
Areas System or IPAS. Funded through a debt-for-nature swap arranged
by WWF, IPAS identified 10 potential nature reserves, which became an
important component of the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau
established by the Philippine Government in 1987. Today, WWF's
support for forest conservation in the Philippines includes Mt
Guiting Guiting and El Nido. Located in Sibuyan, Mt Guiting Guiting
is one of the last remaining areas in the Philippines with extensive
lowland and montane forests. The forests are, however, threatened by
the destructive means by which the people meet their economic needs.
Although the municipal government's efforts to control illegal
logging have minimized this activity, the lack ofalternative sources
of generating income could not eradicate the problem. WWF's three-
year project here aims to introduce livelihood schemes, skills
training, provision of technical assistance, and the establishment of
a credit and savings facility. Started in 1997, the project has an
annual budget of CHF 600,000 which is provided by the Dutch
Government.
The El Nido Marine Reserve in Palawan has a diverse range of
habitats, including rainforests, limestone forests, mangroves, beach
and coastal forests, sea-grass meadows, and coral reefs. These
habitats contain a rich flora and fauna, many of them endemic to
Palawan. For more than a decade, the reserve has been the site of
marine habitat conservation. Recognizing the complex interactions
between terrestrial and marine habitats, El Nido's forests were later
included in the reserve. Logging and shifting cultivation had denuded
the once-forested hillsides causing siltation of the marine
ecosystems. El Nido is part of Global 200 site #34: North Borneo
Lowland & Montane Forests, which has the third richest flora in Asia.
WWF has recently secured funding of CHF 400,000 annually from the
Dutch Government to implement an ICDP in El Nido.
South Pacific
WWF's South Pacific Programme covers the 22 Pacific island nations,
and its forest work included the "Melanesian Forest Conservation
Review". Completed in December 1993, the review looked at the
importance of forest resources and the outlook for their sustainable
use or conservation. It covered the status of forest biodiversity in
Fiji, the Solomons and Vanuatu; past, present and future forest
threats; causes for forest loss; and various forest conservation
approaches. The 105-paged review report has been circulated to
government agencies and NGOs in the three island states and at
relevant regional meetings. More recently, WWF completed a project in
Vanuatu which sought to promote small-scale sustainable harvesting of
the country's timber resources as an alternative to selling logging
concessions to overseas companies. Much of WWF's forest conservation
efforts in this subregion currently focuses on Papua New Guinea and
the Solomons.
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea has an extraordinary diversity of ecosystems and
some of the most remarkable wildlife on Earth. Both the montane and
lowland forests have many unique species, which are similar but not
identical to Indonesia's Irian Jaya. Like the forests of the
Solomons, Papua New Guinea's forests are also threatened by non-
sustainable commercial logging. These forests are included in at
least four Global 200 sites -- #48: New Guinea Montane Forests, #49:
New Guinea Lowland Forests, #50: New Guinea Outer Islands/Solomons
Moist Forests, and #188: New Guinea Mangroves.
One of WWF's biggest projects in Papua New Guinea is conservation of
the Kikori Basin. Aimed at conserving forestry resources through
working with local communities, the project is also important for
freshwater conservation. The Kikori forests are a vital watershed for
an important river basin system. Despite this importance, the forests
are threatened by unsustainable, huge scale commercial logging. An
annual budget of some CHF 1 million is required. Another forest
project with a freshwater component is the Papua New Guinea
CommunityLandcare project. The project provides WWF with the
opportunity to engage in model ICDPs. It proposes community-based
conservation activities at two sites initially. These sites cover a
diverse range of natural habitats, including lowland and montane
forests as well as wetlands such as the Sepik river, a number of
lakes, and coastal areas. Conservation of these wetlands is also of
relevance to forest conservation as their health is inextricably
linked to that of the watersheds and surrounding forests. An annual
budget of CHF 1 million is required, including CHF 800,000 for field
activities and some CHF 200,000 to maintain a central coordinating
core unit. The Dutch Government is likely to fund this project.
The Solomons
The Solomon Islands are part of Global 200 forest site #50: New
Guinea Outer Islands/Solomons Moist Forests. This archipelago has
highly endemic animal and plant life which are different from that
found on the nearby island of New Guinea. Intensive commercial
logging is destroying both the lowland and montane forest habitats.
WWF has been involved in community-based resource conservation
activities in the Solomons since 1991 with funding from the British
Department for International Development (formerly called ODA).
Additional annual funding of some CHF 600,000 is required.
Fiji and Samoa
The forests of Fiji and Samoa are included in Global 200 site #53:
South Pacific Islands Forests. Both islands were once clothed in
tropical moist forests. Although species richness is low compared to
continental moist forests, long isolation has produced remarkable
examples of species endemism, especially among plants, birds,
lizards, frogs, and land snails. Fiji, in particular, has unusual
evolutionary patterns, with iguanas originally from the Neotropics
and other highly disjunct patterns. So far WWF is not involved in any
significant forest related activities on either of these two islands.
However, the organization has developed partnerships with local NGOs
and institutions to conserve natural resources and plan sustainable
activities. An annual budget of some CHF 500,000 is required to
sustain these efforts.
New Caledonia
New Caledonia is an isolated remnant of the ancient super continent
Gondwanaland. Due to its biogeographical history, unusual soil types
and climate variations, the island has been gifted with an
extraordinary biodiversity. Its forests have been listed as Global
200 site #45: New Caledonian Moist Forests. The island has very high
species endemism, particularly arthropods, reptiles and birds. Giant
geckos and horned tortoises formed part of the extraordinary and
dominating reptile fauna, while interesting bird species include the
wingless kagu. New Caledonia also has a diversity of vegetation, with
over 3,000 species of vascular plants, of which nearly 80 per cent
are endemic. Some of the plants have a rare ability to store toxic
nickel from the serpentine soils, while others produce some of the
world's most beautiful flowers. The island's natural treasures are,
however, threatened by habitat clearance, fire, over exploitation of
some species, competition from introduced species, mining,
agriculture, and livestock grazing. WWF could consider setting up an
ICDP programme here if funds are forthcoming. Initial funding of CHF
100,000 would be required to implement a feasibility study and
project development mission.
Other Areas Bangladesh
WWF had been involved in Bangladesh when it helped develop a
management plan for the Sundarbans mangrove forests in 1978 under the
organization's Operation Tiger Project. This involvement has since
stopped. However, under the recently developed WWF Global Tiger
Action Plan, some WWF action has been recommended for the Sundarbans
in Bangladesh which has the highest priority for tiger conservation
for the whole of Asia. Listed under the RAMSAR convention as a
wetland of international importance, the area is also a Global 200
site, #185: Sundarbans Mangroves. According to RAMSAR reports,
Sundarbans's forests are also relatively well managed. A budget of
CHF 50,000 is required for WWF to conduct a feasibility study and
project development mission so as to enable the organization to
identify the role it can play to further improve conservation of this
area, particularly its unique tiger population.
PHOTOS:
Introduction:
Pix NAP 1549: Kerinci-Seblat National Park, Sumatra, Indonesia. About
20-25 per cent of the Earth's flora and fauna, and the greatest
number of Asia's fauna are in the rainforests of southeast Asia.
WWF/Mauri Rautkari
Pix WCS 13646 or Pix WCS 13648: Deforestation, which is widespread in
Asia/Pacific like elsewhere in the world, is the most important cause
of habitat loss leading to loss of biodiversity. WWF/Vin J Toledo
Regional WWF Actions:
Pix CIT 1389: Bird market, Thailand. Many wildlife species found in
the forests of Asia and the Pacific are subject to unsustainable
levels of international trade. WWF/MichSle D,praz
Pix WCS 13831: Tourists in the Wasur National Park in Irian Jaya,
Indonesia. WWF has carried out work to help establish a transfrontier
reserve comprising Wasur and Papua New Guinea's Tonda Wildlife
Management Area. WWF/Ian Craven
Pix 9337: Replanting mangroves destroyed by Agent Orange in Vietnam.
The Government's restoration and conservation efforts have led to
successful reestablishment of mangrove forests which now supply
fuelwood, fish and prawns. WWF/Elizabeth Kemf
National WWF Actions:
China
Pix PAN 336: Panda research, Tangjiahe, China. Several panda reserves
are in Global 200 site #78: Sichuan/Yunnan Temperate Forests, one of
the world's five richest temperate forests for species diversity and
endemism. WWF/George B Schaller
India
Pix LAN 2020: Occupying only 5 per cent of India's land area, the
Western Ghats contain over 4,000 species of higher plants, or more
than a quarter of the country's total. WWF/Mauri Rautkari
Indochina
Pix MAM 8718.02: Saola, Vietnam. The recent discoveries of the saola,
Giant muntjac and Truong Son muntjac in Indochina's forests, amplify
the need for conservation of these natural habitats before they are
lost forever and with them, nature's secrets and our well-being.
WWF/David Hulse
Thailand
Pix MAM 1473.04: The forests of Western Isan are the Sumatran rhino's
last stronghold in Thailand. WWF/Alain
CompostIndonesia/Arfak
Pix INV 645: Goliath birdwing butterfly, Arfak Mountains, Indonesia.
WWF introduced butterfly farming as part of the conservation of this
important reserve in Irian Jaya. WWF/Duncan Neville
Indonesia box
Pix WCS 14996.07: A fire fighter battling with the blazing peat moss
in Indonesia. WWF/Tantyo Bangun
Malaysia
Pix MAM 1359: The forests of Malaysia contain many rare species such
as the Slow loris. WWF/N A MacKenzie
Nepal
Pix LAN 7346.04: WWF's highly successful agroforestry programme in
Nepal's Sagarmatha National Park has ensured that the park's
important flora species such as these giant rhododendrons, survive.
WWF/Pierre Neyret
Philippines
Pix WCS 13652: The El Nido Marine Reserve in the Philippines contains
a diverse range of habitats including rainforests, mangroves, sea
grass meadows, and coral reefs. WWF/Vin J Toledo
Papua New Guinea
Pix AVE 1875: The double-wattled cassowary is one of the many unique
bird species found in the forests of Papua New Guinea. WWF/Alain
Compost
Bangladesh
Pix LAN 1485: The mangrove forests of the Sundarbans are the single
largest continuous area in the world for the threatened Bengal tiger.
The forests also act as a barrier to the frequent storms arising in
the Bay of Bengal, protecting communities inland. WWF/Xavier
Lecoultre
ADDITIONAL PICTURES
Pg 4
Pix FLO 973: The Rafflesia, the world's biggest flower. This
botanical wonder is found only in the forests of Southeast Asia.
WWF/Alain Compost
Pg 12
Pix of Dayak women (need to crop): Dayak women collecting medicinal
plants in the Kalimantan forest, Indonesia. WWF's project in Kayan
Mentarang, Kalimantan, seeks to promote the traditional and
sustainable resource use patterns of the tribal peoples. WWF/Alain
Compost (NB: If caption is too long, cut out 2nd sentence. Thanks.)
ORPix WCS 6115: Rattan, a forest product, is sustainably cultivated
in the bufferzones of Sumatra's Kerinci Seblat National Park,
Indonesia. WWF/Mauri Rautkari
Pg 15
Pix LAN 7346.04: WWF's highly successful agroforestry programme in
Nepal's Sagarmatha National Park has ensured that the park's
important flora species, such as these giant rhododendrons, survive.
WWF/Pierre Neyret
Pg 18
Pix ARP 718.00 or ARP 114.00: The banded iguana, one of the more
unusual wildlife found in Fiji. WWF/John GibbonsSelected WWF Forest
Conservation Actions in Asia/Pacific
1. CHINA: Protecting the bamboo forests of Sichuan, the giant panda's
habitat. Part of a Global 200 site, these forests are ranked among
the world's top five richest temperate forests for species diversity
and endemism.
2. JAPAN: Promoting timber certification among all sectors of Japan
especially trade and industry. Japan is the world's largest importer
of tropical hardwood.
3. MALAYSIA: Raising awareness of conservation and development issues
to protect the montane forests of Peninsular Malaysia's Main Range,
part of Global 200 site #30: Peninsular Malaysian Lowland & Montane
Forests.
4. VIETNAM: Implementing an integrated conservation and development
programme to protect the Vu Quang Nature Reserve, where scientists
discovered two new large mammal species, one in 1992 and the other in
1994. The reserve is in Global 200 site #26: Annamite Range Moist
Forests.
5. SOLOMONS: Helping customary resource owners in conserving their
forests and using them for sustainable development. The forests of
this archipelago are in Global 200 site #50: New Guinea Outer
Islands/Solomons Moist Forests.
6. INDONESIA: Introducing community development schemes, such as
butterfly farming, and promoting formal recognition of the
traditional people's roles in conserving protected areas in Irian
Jaya, a biological hotspot included in several Global 200 sites.
7. PAKISTAN: Conserving the mangrove forests of Sindh and Baluchistan
through persuading villagers to adopt sustainable resource use and
involving them in mangrove rehabilitation.
8. INDIA: Tracking forestry related issues and developments, and
providing research support to policy debate aimed at establishing
positive policies and opposing negative developments that affect
India's forests, several of which are in Global 200 sites.
9. THAILAND: Developing an effective bufferzone management plan for
the Huai Kha Khaeng/Thung Yai forest complex, a World Heritage Site.
Home to tigers, Asian elephants, and more than 400 bird species, the
forests are also important watersheds for several major reservoirs.
10. PHILIPPINES: Enabling the communities of Mt Guiting Guiting to
adopt sustainable livelihood schemes by providing them with skills
training and technical assistance. Part of a Global 200 site, Mt
Guiting Guiting is one of the last remaining areas in the Philippines
with extensive lowland and montane forests.