ABSTRACT
Discussions in previous chapters highlight the complexity of the methods and underlying tasks in valuing forest resources. In many cases several techniques will be needed to tackle the valuation of specific resources (see Boxes 1.2 and 2.3 for a demonstration of a wide range of methods to derive values in particular case study areas). Even though estimating resource values may seem daunting, if done carefully it can be extremely useful. Indeed, the potential for valuation efforts to inform development initiatives is bound to increase over time, as more is learned regarding when, and how, valuation methods may be applied. Although the application of many of these methods to developing-country settings is in its infancy, the techniques are continually and rapidly improving.
