Founded in 1990, the Tropical Forest Foundation (TFF) was established to address increasing concerns of depleting forest
cover. It is an international non–profit, educational organization that seeks to disseminate data and training towards
enhanced forest conservation. The approach of the foundation is to forge alliances between industry groups toward increased
economic value of tropical forests and improved forest management.
TFF along with associates from industry has researched the benefits of Reduced Impact Logging (RIL). It has since
developed programs which have benefited over 5000 people of diverse backgrounds connected with forest conservation. To
further its objective the foundation has established global standards in RIL.
TFF researches ways and means of enhancing the post-logging value of forests toward sustainable forest management. It has
developed and offers market-oriented programs not merely to generate awareness in improved forest management but also to
provide market assurances relating to the origin and legality of forest products such as hardwood flooring.
TFF is assisted in achieving its goals with a strong collaborative association with industry and non–industry
organizations of like-minded concern. Representatives of such organizations sit on the Board of Directors of TFF.
TFF has made significant strides in achieving its goals. Nonetheless deforestation still continues unabated, which has a
detrimental effect on global warming and other environmental considerations. Forests disappear at an alarming rate taking
with it a wealth of flora and fauna that is just beginning to be catalogued. Tropical forests are an integral part of global
wealth and the implications of its uncontrolled destruction are just beginning to be felt.
