Palau Forest Action Plan 2021-2030.

The Republic of Palau Statewide Assessment of Forest Resources and Resource Strategy (SWARS) 2021–2030, also known as the Palau Forest Action Plan, is a long-term framework designed to guide the conservation, protection, and sustainable management of Palau’s forest resources. The plan was developed in response to growing pressures on the country's forests from climate change, population growth, invasive species, erosion, landslides, drought, wildfire, and other environmental threats. It provides an assessment of existing forest conditions and identifies priority actions needed to ensure that forest ecosystems continue to support the environmental, cultural, and economic well-being of the people of Palau.
At its core, the SWARS seeks to conserve Palau’s forests and biodiversity. The plan recognizes that Palau’s forests, which cover approximately three-quarters of the country’s land area, include a diverse range of ecosystems such as mangrove, swamp, volcanic, limestone, coastal, plantation, urban, and agroforests. These ecosystems are increasingly affected by climate-related impacts such as sea-level rise, coastal erosion, intense rainfall, landslides, and the spread of invasive species. As a result, a major objective of the strategy is to maintain healthy and resilient forest ecosystems capable of supporting native species and the ecological services upon which communities depend.
A second major goal is to protect critical forest resources and watersheds that provide essential ecosystem services. The plan highlights the importance of forested watersheds in maintaining water quality and water security for Palau’s population. Particular attention is given to protecting freshwater sources and improving the capacity to respond to environmental threats such as drought and wildfire. By strengthening watershed management and forest protection measures, the strategy aims to safeguard the natural resources that underpin public health, economic development, and community resilience.
The SWARS also seeks to enhance the social, cultural, and economic benefits derived from forests. Forests in Palau provide food, timber, medicine, traditional materials for arts and crafts, recreation opportunities, and support for agroforestry systems. They also contribute to ecotourism, an important sector of the national economy. The plan therefore promotes sustainable forest management practices that allow communities to continue benefiting from forest resources while ensuring that these resources remain available for future generations.
Overall, the Palau Forest Action Plan envisions a future in which forests are conserved as valuable ecosystems, protected as sources of critical natural resources, and sustainably managed to enhance livelihoods, cultural traditions, and economic opportunities. Through this integrated approach, the SWARS aims to strengthen the resilience of both Palau’s forests and its communities over the period 2021–2030.