Is tree planting particularly important in the tropics?
Yes, it is. Trees play vital roles in producing wood and other goods, protecting the site and providing the conditions needed for farming. Is most tropical wood exported? No, some timber goes for export, for making furniture, panelling, etc. But much more is used locally for: • firewood and charcoal; • building houses, boats, fences, etc; • making furniture and household implements; • turning into paper and packaging; • converting into plywood and particle board (see Manual 4). What do trees produce besides timber? Many different kinds of materials, sometimes more valuable than wood, that can be continually harvested without damaging the land, including: • fruits, nuts, bush-meat and other human foods; • medicines, spices, honey, etc; • fodder and browse for domesticated animals; • latex, resins, waxes and dyes; • cane and vines for basket making and tying; • leaves for wrapping food, etc; • shading and potting soil for tree nurseries. How do they protect the site? • by not allowing th
