For the last two decades the loss of, in particular, tropical rainforest has alarmed the public in the developed parts of the world. The debate has been characterised by a lack of understand­ ing of the causes and effects of the process, leading to the prevailing reaction being unquali­ fied condemnation. Such attitude has even been observed among scientists, claiming suprem­ acy to biodiversity conservation. Many scientific analyses are available, but the basis for so­ ber debates and appropriate actions is still highly insufficient. Two recent international initia­ tives! will hopefully lead to improved knowledge of deforestation and forest degradation as they recognise the need for studies to critically investigate those issues. This book will pro­ vide useful input to the initiatives. In my opinion, the scientific analyses have not sufficiently promoted the understanding that the fate of tropical forests is first and foremost a concern of the governments of the countries in which the forests are situated. Tropical forests may be important to the global environment and their rich biodiversity may be a human heritage. But their main importance is their poten­ tial contribution to improving livelihood in the countries in question.