Forests

Human society and the global economy are inextricably linked to forests. More than 1 billion people depend on forests for their livelihoods. And forest ecosystems play a critical role in stabilizing the climate; providing food, water, wood products, and vital medicines; and supporting much of the world’s biodiversity.

Despite decreased deforestation rates in some regions, forest ecosystems are still under great threat. According to WRI research, 30 percent of global forest cover has been cleared, while another 20 percent has been degraded. Most of the rest has been fragmented, leaving only about 15 percent intact.

WRI works with governments, businesses, and civil society to sustain forests for future generations. We aim to curb deforestation worldwide and help to restore and reforest already-cleared land.

WRI’s Global Forest Watch initiative uses the most advanced satellite data and crowd-sourced information to track deforestation throughout the world in near-real-time. Our Global Restoration Initiative identifies ways to restore trees and productivity to deforested and degraded lands. Our Forest Legality Initiative works to reduce illegal logging by supporting the supply and procurement of legal and sustainable forest products. And we develop policy recommendations to ensure effective and inclusive governance of the world’s forest resources.