The role of forests in a green economy transformation in Africa

This report explores the role of forests in a green economy transformation in Africa. Its aim is to present policymakers with a strong rationale for linking forests and REDD+ planning with green economy planning and investments. According to UNEP (2012), a green economy ‘results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities’. Africa is achieving high GDP growth rates but still faces challenges to reduce poverty and create sufficient jobs. As Africa’s economies are highly dependent on natural resources, the ability to generate growth in the future and meet wider development priorities will depend on what happens to key resources like forests. For this reason green economy approaches are increasingly relevant to Africa.