Researchers are increasingly being forced to consider how their research findings can result in tangible impacts thereby presenting a considerable challenge to those seeking to achieve those impacts as a consequence of policy changes. The policy change process is subject to a bewildering array of social, economic and political influences, and policy decisions are taken largely independently from the actions of scientists and research institutes. To assume that conducting research on policies relating to forests and disseminating the findings will lead to changes in the policies themselves is unrealistically naive and grossly overestimates the role of knowledge acquisition in policy change processes. A role exists nevertheless. 

Through successful case studies from tropical countries, we will demonstrate the transformative potential of forest science in driving positive change. It will showcase examples of sustainable forestry practices, community-based initiatives, and innovative conservation strategies that have emerged from scientific research.

We hope to underscore the pivotal role of forest science in the conservation and sustainable use of tropical forests. By integrating scientific evidence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and inclusive approaches, it becomes possible to develop effective policies and practices that ensure the long-term health, resilience, and equitable benefits of tropical forests for present and future generations.