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An analysis of the reasons for the forest crisis in Asia reveals that economic policies, a lack of involvement from the community, the inability of the forestry institutions to adapt to changes and technological constraints are responsible for the crisis. The various uses of natural forests, which include environmental services and aesthetic beauty, require them to be managed as a multiple user. Sustainable management is an alternative to manage the ecosystem and maintain a balance in the forests of Asia. However, successful implementation of sustainable management requires sound pricing policies, strong institutions for implementation of these policies and the involvement of the locals.

The article discusses forests and degraded lands restoration efforts in Southeast Asia. Topics include reference to scientific innovations in tropical forestry such as teak tree introduction in Java, taungya agroforestry system as well as the evergreen dipterocarp forests. Also mentioned are rubber cash crop in Malaysia, initiative in the Lao People's Democratic Republic and the Philippines' National Greening Program.

The article focuses on emergence of sustainable forest management (SFM) more than a silvicultural system. Topics discussed include role of indigenous people to promote forest diversity through shifting agriculture, implementation of rules and regulations to control tree harvesting and overgrazing, and development of the selection system and the shelterwood systems to address issues concerning harvesting of trees.