Yokohama, 15 May 2025: Examining the contents of this issue of Tropical Forest Update, a reader might struggle to identify a unifying theme given the wide range of topics, from ITTO’s global advocacy to microcredit schemes in Cambodia to the emergence of Viet Nam’s booming forest sector. In fact, the wide variety of subjects demonstrates how sustainable forest management (SFM) is permeating the whole forest sector. Slowly but steadily, an approach that delivers benefits simultaneously for society, the economy and the environment is becoming mainstream—the status that SFM must attain to be effective.

New York, 09 May 2025: Tropical forests need more than protection, they need investment. As global attention sharpens on sustainable finance and nature-based solutions, the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) made a strong case for the need to urgently mobilize resources where they matter most.

Ho Chi Minh City, 08 May 2025: The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) took center stage at this year’s PEFC Forest Forum in Viet Nam, where Director of Forest Management Jennifer Conje delivered the keynote address and joined a panel discussion on the future of sustainable forestry. 

New York, 07 May 2025: As part of the weeklong gathering in New York, on 06 May 2025 the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) actively contributed to critical discussions centered on advancing the Global Forest Goals and UN Strategic Plan for Forests 2017–2030 at the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20).

New York, 06 May 2025: The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) is actively engaged in the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20), taking place from 5 to 9 May 2025 at United Nations Headquarters in New York. This key global forum—under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)—is focused on reviewing progress towards the Global Forest Goals and the UN Strategic Plan for Forests 2030, with this session emphasizing Goals 1, 3, and 5: halting deforestation, promoting sustainably managed forests, and enhancing forest governance.

Yokohama, 05 May 2025: From May 3 to 5, 2025, during the latter half of Japan’s Golden Week, the PACIFICO Yokohama Exhibition Hall came alive with vibrant blooms, gardening enthusiasts, and children's laughter at the Yokohama Flower and Garden Show. Among the many attractions, the joint exhibition by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) and the City of Yokohama’s Green Environment Bureau stood out, captivating attendees with an engaging display emphasizing the beauty and importance of tropical forest biodiversity.