New $227M initiative launches to save Southeast Asia's vanishing primary forests
A new regional initiative aims to protect Southeast Asia and the Pacific’s primary forests. The Southeast Asia and the Pacific Forests Integrated Program (SEAP Forests IP) has secured USD 42.4 million in grants from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), alongside USD 185 million in co-financing. The launch coincides with the International Day for Biological Diversity, highlighting the urgent need for conservation. The program focuses on safeguarding primary forests in Lao PDR, Papua New Guinea, and Thailand. These ecosystems support agrifood systems, biodiversity, carbon storage, and Indigenous communities’ livelihoods. Yet they face growing pressures from land-use changes, infrastructure projects, and climate impacts.
The initiative is co-led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Nine countries have already pledged their involvement, according to Jean-Marc Sinnassamy, a senior GEF environmental specialist.
A conference hosted by the Lao PDR government brought together regional partners to share knowledge and strategies. Alue Dohong, FAO Assistant Director-General, stressed the importance of balancing agriculture and forestry goals while scaling up sustainable land-use solutions. Dr Dindo Campilan, Regional Hub Director for Asia and Oceania, underscored the need for swift action, regional cooperation, and scientific expertise to halt forest loss.
The program aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, placing primary forests at the heart of conservation efforts. It promotes integrated landscape approaches to ensure long-term protection and sustainable management. The SEAP Forests IP will channel funding into three country projects and a regional coordination effort. Its success depends on cross-border collaboration and the adoption of sustainable practices. The initiative seeks to reverse forest degradation while supporting local communities and biodiversity across the region.
