Why Trees Outside Forests?
Trees not only grow in forests but also beyond: in farms, pastures, meadows, parks, cities, along roads, rivers and across other non-forested landscapes. These trees outside of designated ‘forest’ areas are categorised as Trees Outside Forests (TOF).
Did you know?
Trees outside forests help people thrive and survive
They provide food, materials, income, employment and livelihoods for millions of people. They also provide vital ecosystem services like clean air and water, habitat for animals, and help in climate regulation.
Environmental benefits
Social benefits
Economic benefits
Trees outside forests can help save our forests
Vast swathes of the world’s forests are being destroyed every day: mainly for agriculture, forest products (like food, paper, wood) and infrastructure development. TOF-based timber and medicinal products are emerging as major alternatives to products sourced from forests and can significantly reduce the pressure on forests.
Together, we can protect our forests. And trees outside forests are our greatest ally.
However, various barriers presented by policies, economic factors, capacity and information need attention if we are to achieve large-scale impact.
TOFI harnesses the power of collaboration with local communities, governments, civil-society organisations, businesses and investors to expand the area under trees outside forests, develop capacities, promote policy changes, and create sustainable financing mechanisms. TOFI will help restore degraded landscapes, support sustainable livelihoods, and mitigate the climate crisis.
