Abstract:

Forest products are returns derived from forests that are beneficial to users. They
include tangible products and non-tangible ones referred to as services. Tree products are the most dominant commercial products and include firewood, charcoal, timber and poles. Non-wood forest products include rattan canes, wild fruits, nuts, medicine, edible insects, oils, gums and resins. The often-overlooked non-tangible forest services include climate regulation; water catchments and flood control; soil and water conservation; nutrient storage and recycling; carbon sink; biodiversity base; and recreation—all of which are a basic part of any economy's support systems. The challenge however is the shrinking forest cover due to mainly deforestation arising from agricultural expansion, over exploitation products and illegal forest activities. Research on forest products sourcing, processing and utilization, could contribute to sustainable forest management and utilization.