To enhance the ecological health and sustainability of degraded forests while improving the livelihoods of local communities through practical forest restoration techniques, sustainable management practices, and community engagement.

To transform degraded forests by improving forest growth, quality, and ecological services through restoration and sustainable forest management practices.

To enhance the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities.

To disseminate knowledge and improve capacities in forest restoration and rehabilitation.

Establish 50 hectares of demonstration forests by thinning non-target species and interplanting gaps with rare, nitrogen-fixing tree species.

Establish 10 hectares of home gardens with commercially valuable trees and crops to provide economic benefits, and develop alternative energy sources by installing 16 sets of small solar equipment to ensure an adequate energy supply.

Conduct one technical training and on-site practices for local communities, and one international conference on tropical forest restoration and rehabilitation for forestry professionals to increase their knowledge and capacities in forest restoration and sustainable forest management.

Compile and publish a technical manual to share the project’s best practices and experiences.

The project successfully restored 50 hectares of degraded forest in Cambodia through thinning and inter-planting nitrogen-fixing tree species, improving forest structure, biodiversity, and carbon storage. Ecological outcomes included a 57.9% increase in stand volume for moderately degraded forests, enhanced soil nutrients, and an 18.2% rise in tree species diversity. The forest’s carbon storage increased by 22.4%, demonstrating significant environmental benefits.  

Economically, the project established 19.94 hectares of home gardens and distributed fruit trees and crops, boosting household incomes. Solar systems provided electricity to 20 households, and a revolving fund grew from $7,840 to $8,950, supporting 39 families in livelihood activities. Villagers reported increased savings, with annual household savings rising from $925 (2019) to $1,357 (2021).  

Socially, over 40 locals received technical training in forest management and agroforestry, while an international seminar shared restoration strategies with 46 experts. A trilingual technical manual and promotional materials disseminated best practices. Community engagement was strong, with villagers actively participating in forest maintenance and livelihood programs.