A framework for natural forest investments with comments on equity

This paper discusses the natural forest investments and equitable distribution of costs and benefits for sustainable forest management. The importance of natural forests is emphasised and economic investment is explained in general terms and linked with forestry investments. Five major forestry investment areas are described, and the sources of investment flows are described for Ghana as an example. The issue of equity in the distribution of forestry costs and benefits is discussed briefly, and illustrated with the economic theory of income distribution. Three possible approaches or strategies for easing the burden of investment costs on the public purse are suggested, namely:
• review of funding structure, • review afforest ownership structure, and • review of decision-making structure or procedures. The theory of equitable or "ideal" distribution of income to factors is explained. What is equitable - in the long run – is not a matter only of economic theory, but also of social and economic reality - in the sense that no section of society becomes more disadvantaged than others.