Conifers dominate large areas of the world’s forests. They are especially abundant in the boreal and temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and are also important components of many tropical and sub-tropical forest ecosystems. Conifers are capable of growing under a wide range of conditions. And, most important, many conifers are capable of producing both wood and non-wood products, which are of great benefit to human society. The objective of this paper is to provide a global review of the non-wood uses of conifers. Although some services are briefly mentioned, the focus of this paper is on products which conifers provide species, which are important sources of non-wood forest products, and places where these products are harvested. Problems associated with the sustainable management of these products and compatibility or conflicts with other land uses are also presented. This information is presented in order to assist in identifying opportunities for management and production of non-wood conifer products as an integral part of economic development and poverty alleviation initiatives in economically depressed regions of the world where conifer forests, either natural or planted, exist. In addition, this information is also designed to help identify opportunities for special management of conifer forests and woodlands where either traditional or contemporary non-wood forest products are presently or potentially an important economic or social resource.

Type of Case
Printed publication (book, sourcebook, journal article…)

Publisher
FAO

Region
Global

Biome
Boreal, Temperate, Tropical

Forest Type
All forest types (natural and planted)

Primary Designated Function
All