The Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) actively participated in the 30th Session of the Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission (APFC) as an Associate Member of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The 30th APFC aims to advise on the formulation of forest policy and to review and coordinate its implementation on the regional scale; to exchange information and advise on suitable practices and action in regard to technical problems, and to make appropriate recommendations in relation to the foregoing.
Forest and Landscape Restoration: AFoCO highlighted its commitment to advancing Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) mechanisms in Asia. The organization also introduced the Landscape Partnership Asia (LPA) as a regional program aiming to promote forest and landscape restoration in drylands and drought-prone areas.
Sustainable Strategies: AFoCO introduced its new Strategic Plan 2024-2030 and Climate Action Plan 2025-2034 during the APFC Session, emphasizing its dedication to sustainable forestry practices and climate action in the Asia-Pacific region.
Combating Forest Fires: AFoCO’s participated in discussions about integrated fire management acknowledged its role as a key partner in addressing forest fires. The organization presented initiatives like the AKCF and MKCF projects, closely related to Assuring the Future of Forests with Integrated Risk Management (AFFIRM) Mechanism’s goals. Dr. Youn Hojoong, Regional Project Manager, introduced the AKCF-funded project on “Capacity Building on Enhancing Resilience to Forest Fire, and Local Livelihood and Market Linkages (AFoCO/032/2022)“, which is targeted at enhancing the capacities of CLMV countries on the integrated management of forest fires for the conservation of natural resources, enhancement of local livelihood, and promotion of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Contributed by Hyungmin Kim, Assistant Program Officer
