Ahead of its 10th Annual Meeting in Rome, the Forests & Livelihoods: Assessment, Research, and Engagement (FLARE) Network has launched a new policy brief series aimed at connecting high-quality research to policy discussions at the intersection of forests and livelihoods. The series draws upon a diverse set of expertise within the FLARE community to advance knowledge and action on key current issues relating to climate, biodiversity, poverty, social justice, forest governance and more.

Forests are essential to the livelihoods of Indigenous peoples and other communities across the globe–providing food, fuel, and raw materials, and contributing to climate regulation, water security, and biodiversity, among other benefits. Yet forests are under increasing pressure from deforestation, climate change, and land-use conflicts. 

“As global challenges intensify, it is vital that policies supporting sustainable management of forest ecosystems are informed by the latest research and best practices,” said Daniel C. Miller, Coordinator of the FLARE Network and Associate Professor in the Keough School of Global Affairs at the University of Notre Dame. “The FLARE community is working to fill this knowledge gap by distilling complex research findings into accessible, actionable policy recommendations that support policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders in designing interventions that promote just and sustainable futures for people and forests alike.”

We invite you to explore the first brief in the series and stay tuned for the upcoming briefs, which will continue to explore how our work can be enhanced through innovative policies and practices. Together, we can build a future where both people and forests thrive.