Non-timber forest products

Non-timber forest products are what is harvested in forests apart from timber: fruits, vegetables, leaves, roots, honey, bush meat. Countless people all over the world gather these products for consumption or private use; many earn a living by selling them. They are significant in housing, feeding, health care, social and ritual occasions in communities, and many other uses.
This booklet gives an overview of wild plant products and their use in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific. It can be a source of information for field workers and for communities that depend on forest products. It also aims at raising awareness of the potential of these products.
Case studies explain important aspects of harvesting non-timber forest products by locals. Sustainable harvesting and marketing can be stimulated by ngo’s and extension workers. Also the booklet elaborates on making an inventory of local products and reviving local knowledge, cooperating with local people.
An appendix describes the major non-timber forest products, their use, characteristics and scientific name. Lists of useful literature and addresses are added, as well as a glossary.

Sample PDF: Non-timber forest products

No. of pages: 68

Published: 2006