Demonstration projects have been another focus. APFNet has implemented more than 50 projects in 20 member economies in recent years, covering tropical forests, mangroves and dryland ecosystems. These projects have restored 1,327 hectares of degraded land, helped build Myanmar"s first national arboretum, supported pilot planting and sustainable management of native sandalwood in Fiji, and established a precious tree species breeding center in Cambodia to conserve 56 tree species.

　　Song Zhanfeng (center right) instructs fellow villagers on how to cultivate red pine mushrooms at Wangyedian forest farm in Chifeng, Inner Mongolia autonomous region. CHINA DAILY

　　In Cambodia, a forest restoration project has shown how ecological rehabilitation can be linked with local livelihoods.

　　Jointly implemented by the Chinese Academy of Forestry and Cambodia"s forestry authorities, the project introduced close-to-nature forest management techniques to degraded tropical forest while helping local communities build more sustainable livelihoods in Siem Reap. It established 50 hectares of forest restoration demonstration sites, helped villagers build 20 hectares of home gardens and provided solar power systems for 20 households. A revolving fund of $7,840 was also set up to support livelihood activities.

　　Such projects show that forest restoration can go beyond tree planting. In many developing economies, degraded forests are closely connected with rural livelihoods, energy access and local incomes. By combining restoration with household gardens, small funds, training and clean energy support, forestry projects can become more acceptable and sustainable for communities.