Strategies for Financial Sustainability Toward Forest Conservation in Colombia

Abstract

Throughout the country's history, colonization and land clearing for cattle ranching and agriculture have driven the deforestation of large forest areas. This process has intensified, however, with the rising value of timber for commercial exploitation and the expansion of the road network, which facilitates access to natural ecosystems. Among the possible strategies that could be implemented for forest conservation without incurring major costs are the development of lightweight mobility systems, State oversight of large processing facilities, and greater reforestation of degraded areas within forest reserves. Likewise, one way to raise funds for conservation purposes is the sale of "green" carbon credits in international markets.