Why Forestry?

Forests across Asia are critical for climate stability, biodiversity, and livelihoods, yet the region continues to experience some of the world’s highest rates of deforestation. Between 1990 and 2020, Asia lost over 37 million hectares of forest, driven by agricultural expansion, logging, and infrastructure development. This threatens essential ecosystem services, including water regulation, carbon storage, and food security, which collectively contribute more than USD 1.4 trillion annually to regional economies. Forest degradation also weakens Asia’s ability to meet climate and development goals. ADB and partners are investing in scalable solutions such as reforestation, mangrove restoration, agroforestry, and improved forest management to protect carbon stocks, restore degraded land, and enhance rural incomes. Expanding these technologies across Asia is essential to reversing forest loss and building resilience for communities and economies