Sustainable management of natural forests in the tropics is identified as one important opportunity to engage the private sector in the sustainable use of biodiversity and natural resources. Forest companies all over the tropics demonstrate the viability of conserving natural forests by managing them commercially. Still, many institutional investors fear reputational risks and therefore do not invest in natural forest management. The study aims to address the main barriers for large scale investments into natural forest management. Best natural forest management practices are analyzed and benchmarks are developed. The information will help to identify effective and practical REDD+ and FLEGT policy interventions to reduce existing reputational risks and enhance investments in sustainable forest management.

• Survey of certified forest enterprises in the three major tropical regions.
• Detailed assessment of six selected enterprises (case studies).
• Identification of best practices of large scale natural forest management.
• Benchmarking of production costs and social and environmental impacts.
• Presentation of study results in reports and policy papers.