Rob Kozak and his research group have established two new and related initiatives in the Faculty of Forestry at UBC: FACT (Forests and Communities in Transition) and AFRICAD (Africa Forests Research Initiative on Conservation and Development). While both address the social, cultural, and economic challenges and opportunities for forest-dependent communities, the initiatives differ in intention and scope.

In addition to conducting and supporting research focused on the interface of communities and forests, FACT will proactively support capacity development, knowledge exchange, and dialogue. It aims to foster a global network of researchers and communities working in partnership with governments, non-government organizations, academia, industry, and others to contribute to the development of more resilient and sustainable forest-dependent communities. Please visit FACT’s website at www.fact.ubc.ca.

AFRICAD was established in response to a recognized need for Africa-focused research in the Faculty of Forestry and the acute vulnerability of many communities in the forested regions of Africa. The initiative conducts applied, conservation-oriented research that addresses poverty alleviation, health, sustainable livelihoods, social equity, and conflicts over forest resources. In addition, AFRICAD members will be developing curriculum at the Faculty of Forestry that addresses these issues.  Please visit AFRICAD’s website at www.africad.ubc.ca.

The AFRICAD and FACT teams encourage your input and involvement. If you are interested in learning more about these initiatives or showcasing your group’s research on the websites, please contact them at:

Rob Kozak rob.kozak@ubc.ca 604.822.2402

FACT: Erin McGuigan (Managing Director) erin.mcguigan@ubc.ca 604.790.0904

AFRICAD: Joleen Timko (Managing Director) joleen.timko@ubc.ca  604.822.6092