2010
This paper by staff from Landesa (then called the Rural Development Institute) describes the ways in which farmers’ rights to forestland and trees are compromised by historical and institutional factors, and government programs to protect forests. The authors conclude that to ensure the long-term success of such programs while addressing the welfare of the affected rural poor people, China should continue reform efforts, particularly bolstering the security of farmers’ rights over forestland and trees and adequately compensating farmers affected by carbon sequestration programs. | Download PDF
Related resources

Responsible Investments in Property and Land Resource Platform
Landesa’s Responsible Investments in Property and Land (RIPL) Resource Platform translates international guidelines and best practices for responsible investments in agricultural land into user-friendly guidebooks, with one designed for businesses, one for communities, one for governments, and country-specific guidebooks for Ghana and Tanzania.
Landesa Reports

Brief: Land Rights for Climate Justice
Effective climate action depends on the rights and leadership of the people who live on and steward the land. This brief explores how secure, inclusive land rights can improve outcomes and reduce risks across mangrove conservation, carbon markets, renewable energy, and global climate policy.
Issue Briefs
Brief: Understanding Sustainable Land Use Plans
Land and resource planning can help communities respond to climate change and engage in sustainable management practices. This brief presents initial findings from an ongoing study into the development of sustainable land use plans and their potential to create environmental and social benefits.
Issue Briefs