Book excerpt: Written by leading international authors, this book presents a comprehensive review of forests in mountain regions, and their sustainable development. Based on a report prepared by the IUFRO Task Force in Sustainable Mountain Development, for the IUFRO Congress to be held in August 2000. The book addresses current issues and initiatives, and defines research needs. Key global issues and addressed is in general articles, while specific regional topics are described and highlighted within each chapter in shorter case studies. Case studies are drawn from all continents, examples including Mexico, Central Europe, Cameroon, Tanzania, Chile, Korea, New Zealand and many others. Contributions have been included from nearly 100 world experts, making this volume the definitive, state-of the art review of its subject.