Evidence Review on Forest Conservation – An Evidence Gap Map

This paper presents an updated evidence gap map of forest conservation interventions in developing countries based on evidence published from 1990 to 2024. The evidence base has increased and filled evidence gaps, in particular on the role of forest policies in halting deforestation and the role of market-based instruments such as certification and credit mechanisms in achieving not only forest conservation but also supporting livelihoods. The bulk of the evidence base remains focused on protected areas, community-based forest management and payments for ecosystem services, where the majority of outcomes relate to forest cover and livelihoods.