Cameroon

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 6, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 09: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 9, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 09: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 9, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 09: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 9, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 08: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 8, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 6, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 6, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JULY 09: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 9, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 03: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 3, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 07: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 7, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 09: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 9, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 09: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 9, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 03: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 3, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON, JUNE 06: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 6, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 6 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 08: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 8, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Members of the Baka Pygmy tribe, the original forest dwellers of the Cameroon forests, Kika, Cameroon, June 6, 2010. The Baka have small logging concessions of their own in community forest areas but are plaughed by a lack of education, logging equipment, access to markets and an addiction to alcohol fostered by their Bantu neighbours who ruled them for many years and who often pay the Baka for labor in alcohol. Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

YOKADOUMA, CAMEROON - JUNE 09: Cameroon Forestry Protection Rangers with conficated rifles and poached ivory, Yokadouma, Cameroon, June 9, 2010. Small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 6, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

YOKADOUMA, CAMEROON - JUNE 04: Newly created logging roads are bring man and agricultural cultivation further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Yokadouma, Cameroon, June 4, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 5: Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 05: A drunk Bantu man lies in a storefront in one of many small towns created by logging concessions which are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

YOKADOUMA, CAMEROON - JUNE 04: Newly created logging roads are bring man and agricultural cultivation further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Yokadouma, Cameroon, June 4, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

CAMEROON - JUNE 03: Local people with bushmeat sold and purchased all along the logging roads of Cameroon, this is not an illegal activity at this time but as logging creates roads and towns the pressure on bushmeat is rapidly becoming unsustainable and unless controlled may lead to the rapid eradication of most forest creatures, Cameroon, June 3, 2010. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 07: A local butchery relieves pressure on the animals of the forest as beef is consumed instead of bushmeat in one of the small towns created by logging concessions that are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 7, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

YOKADOUMA, CAMEROON - JUNE 04: Newly created logging roads are bring man and agricultural cultivation further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Yokadouma, Cameroon, June 4, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

CAMEROON, - JUNE 04: Local people with bushmeat sold and purchased all along the logging roads of Cameroon, this is not an illegal activity at this time but as logging creates roads and towns the pressure on bushmeat is rapidly becoming unsustainable and unless controlled may lead to the rapid eradication of most forest creatures, Cameroon, June 4, 2010. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 6, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 05: A local butchery relieves pressure on the animals of the forest as beef is consumed instead of bushmeat in one of the small towns created by logging concessions that are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 05: Logging roads and subsequent small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

CAMEROON - JUNE 04: Local people with bushmeat sold and purchased all along the logging roads of Cameroon, this is not an illegal activity at this time but as logging creates roads and towns the pressure on bushmeat is rapidly becoming unsustainable and unless controlled may lead to the rapid eradication of most forest creatures, Cameroon, June 4, 2010. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 05: Small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 5, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Small towns created by logging concessions are bringing man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Kika, Cameroon, June 6, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

YOKADOUMA, CAMEROON - JUNE 04: Newly created logging roads are bring man and infrastructure further into the forest of Cameroon than ever before, Yokadouma, Cameroon, June 4, 2010. This is severely threatening the great forests of the Congo Basin, one of the last great Forest reserves in the world. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 6, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 07: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 7, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 03: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 3, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

CAMEROON, JUNE 03: Scenes from Pallisco Logging company's FSC Timber operations in Mindourou, Cameroon, June 3, 2010. Pallisco is attempting to build up its FSC certified timber business to ensure a sustainable future. This entails a strictly monitored tree harvesting program, a strict forest management program and the development of forest management strategy with local communities. Education, medical facilities and transparent business dealing are all part of the requirements for FSC certification. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 08: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 8, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 08: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 8, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 07: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 7, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 07: Workers at home in Alpicam's concession area where FSC sustainable logging is being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 7, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 03: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 3, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 03: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 3, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 08: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 8, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

CAMEROON - JUNE 03: Scenes from Pallisco Logging company's FSC Timber operations in Mindourou, Cameroon, June 3, 2010. Pallisco is attempting to build up its FSC certified timber business to ensure a sustainable future. This entails a strictly monitored tree harvesting program, a strict forest management program and the development of forest management strategy with local communities. Education, medical facilities and transparent business dealing are all part of the requirements for FSC certification. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

CAMEROON - JUNE 03: Scenes from Pallisco Logging company's FSC Timber operations in Mindourou, Cameroon, June 3, 2010. Pallisco is attempting to build up its FSC certified timber business to ensure a sustainable future. This entails a strictly monitored tree harvesting program, a strict forest management program and the development of forest management strategy with local communities. Education, medical facilities and transparent business dealing are all part of the requirements for FSC certification. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 07: FSC sustainable logging being carried out in the natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 7, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

CAMEROON - JUNE 03: Scenes from Pallisco Logging company's FSC Timber operations in Mindourou, Cameroon, June 3, 2010. Pallisco is attempting to build up its FSC certified timber business to ensure a sustainable future. This entails a strictly monitored tree harvesting program, a strict forest management program and the development of forest management strategy with local communities. Education, medical facilities and transparent business dealing are all part of the requirements for FSC certification. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.

KIKA, CAMEROON - JUNE 06: Natural forest around the Alpicam logging concession in the Kika region of Cameroon, June 6, 2010. Alpicam are trying to develop their FSC timber business which entails sustainable harvesting of timber in the region with direct benefit to local forest communities like education and medical facilities and help with forest management techniques for local groups. The Congo Basin forests cover an area the combined size of France and South Africa. The forests of Cameroon form a large part of this basin. Still relatively intact and connected, these forest ecosystems and freshwater systems are home to abundant wildlife and provide food, shelter, clean water and protection against floods to more than 75 million people. The economic value of these systems is enormous. Timber alone is worth several Billion Euros annually to the Forest industry, while minerals are also being heavily exploited. The importance of the Congo Basin as a global, natural reservoir to store Carbon is also massive. CO2 emissions from deforestation of this region could be devastating for agriculture and water resources. The challenges for Cameroon are enormous. If social and economic development needs are to be met, then development will have to be sustainable.