Bioeconomies emphasize the use of renewable natural resources to sustainably provide products. A bioeconomy can reduce the environmental impact of economic growth. Science-based management promotes sustainable harvests and production.
Nontimber forest products (NTFP) are goods used for a variety of purposes. NTFP provide food, medicine, decorations, nursery and landscaping products, fine art, and crafts. Billions of people worldwide depend on NTFP, either by direct consumption or as a source of income.
These products are relatively invisible in national statistics. This under-reporting obscures the role they play in poverty reduction, food and health security, and social stability.
The IUFRO Task Force is investigating how NTFP can be integrated with the bioeconomy, and how research can support these efforts. The Task Force has more than 70 experts, representing over 20 institutions. The Task Force is facilitating dialogue and sharing knowledge to improve the reporting of NTFP contributions to the bioeconomy.
This webinar series is an opportunity to learn about the ongoing research on these products within a bioeconomy concept.
This webinar series is hosted by the IUFRO Task Force, USDA Forest Service, The Forest History Society, and Renmin University of China.
Find out more at: https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/webinars/ntfp/
