Objectives- take stock of developments in forest-related reporting processes since the 2nd meeting;
- harmonize definitions related to (a) biophysical constitutions of forest resources, and (b) human interventions to manage forests for various purposes.
Background
In 2002, FAO hosted two Expert Meetings on Harmonizing Forest- related Definitions for Use by Various Stakeholders, which were jointly organized with IPCC, CIFOR, UNEP and IUFRO. Over 50 experts, some from these organizations and others from countries, UNESCO, CBD, UNFCCC, the private sector and NGOs, came together to discuss an analytical framework on forest-related definitions, develop options for harmonizing core forest-related definitions, and discuss follow-up actions.
When presenting the recommendations of the process to UNFF, SBSTA UNFCCC, CBD and COFO, FAO and its partners were requested to continue the process of harmonizing forest-related definitions. A further expert meeting for the harmonization of forest-related definitions as regards natural and managed forests, planted forests and trees outside forests is planned for January 2005. The discussions will incorporate the interests of stakeholders such as forest managers, inventorists, the biodiversity, climate change and combating desertification communities, non-governmental organizations and the private sector. In continuing the process of harmonizing forest-related definitions previously held within the context of CPF, the conveners are thus also responding to recommendations made at UNFF 4.
Terms to be discussed
The terms and definitions to be discussed relate to the following complexes, including cross references between the terms:
– natural forests, planted forest, forest plantation, trees outside forests and related terms addressing the biophysical constitution of forest resources;
– managed forests and related terms addressing human intervention in forests, which may include or take into consideration definitions of protected areas, management plans and designated functions of forests.