Introduction
Environmental Protection
The extraction of NWFPs can be done in a sustainable manner, which can help protect the environment. For example, sustainable beekeeping can help conserve forests and promote the regeneration of degraded areas 1. The extraction of NWFPs can also help prevent deforestation by providing alternative sources of income for rural communities, reducing their dependence on timber and charcoal production 2
Improvement of People’s Well-being
The extraction and trade of NWFPs can provide income and employment opportunities for rural communities, which can help improve their well-being. For example, the sale of honey and beeswax can provide income for beekeepers, while the sale of medicinal plants can provide income for traditional healers 3. The consumption of NWFPs can also contribute to people’s well-being by providing them with food, medicine, and other products.
Contribution to National GDP
The extraction and trade of NWFPs can contribute to the national GDP. For example, the export of essential oils, such as clove oil, can generate foreign exchange earnings for the country4. The extraction and trade of NWFPs can also create employment opportunities in the processing and marketing of these products.
Eradicating Poverty
The extraction and trade of NWFPs can provide income and employment opportunities for rural communities, which can help eradicate poverty. For example, the sale of honey and beeswax can provide income for beekeepers, while the sale of medicinal plants can provide income for traditional healers 3. The extraction and trade of NWFPs can also reduce the dependence of rural communities on subsistence agriculture, which can be affected by climate change and other factors.
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Achievement
The extraction and trade of NWFPs can contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. For example, the extraction and trade of NWFPs can contribute to the achievement of Goal 1 (No Poverty), Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and Goal 15 (Life on Land) 5
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