Sustainable management of land resources is the foundation of sustainable livelihoods and income generation for Pacific Islanders. Land resources are a source of food, shelter, and economic development. Managing land resources sustainably is crucial for the important ecosystems services they provide such as watershed protection, biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration.

Climate change, pressures from increasing population and unsustainable land use practices such as burning have led to increasing land degradation in the region and a reduction in the ecosystem services the land provides. Land is integral to the identity of Pacific Islanders as its guardians for future generations, and additionally plays an important role in cultural, social and political relationships. Due to the relatively small size of many Pacific islands, any disturbances to the land can also affect the surrounding marine environment and ultimately the livelihoods of families and communities.
 

The Sustainable Forests and Landscapes work theme provides support in the development and promotion of sound land-use policies and practices that include biophysical assessments, participatory land use planning, and improvements in soil management through agroforestry.