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We are an internationally recognised, independent organisation whose
unique expertise delivers sustainable natural resource management,
from policy, investment and procurement, to production on the ground.

HCV training and capacity building

Proforest has a wealth of experience in developing and delivering High Conservation Value (HCV) courses, workshops and guidance for a wide range of audiences, from one-day introductory courses to in-depth field-based training and support.

Proforest has been involved in the development of the High Conservation Value (HCV) concept since it was introduced by the Forest Stewardship Council in 1999. From very early on we have put an emphasis on the promotion of the concept through training courses, workshops and practical guidance material.

We have worked with governments, certification schemes, auditors, conservation NGOs and private partners, building their capacity to address HCV and conservation issues. We have delivered and participated in country-specific and bespoke courses and workshops in more than 15 different countries, including many where we were involved in the national HCV interpretation. Each year, we also run an HCV course during our Summer Training Programme.

Our clients and partners have included organisations as diverse as WWF, RSPO, The Nature Conservancy, China’s State Forestry Administration and GFA consulting group.

See below for some examples of our HCV  training and capacity building experience.

  • HCVF training and capacity building in China

    Supported by WWF and the State Forest Administration | 2008

    Proforest's Tim Rayden was in China in 2008 to run a training programme on the use of the High Conservation Value framework in forest management. Read more

  • HCVF Workshop in Gabon

    For WWF GFTN and Rougier Gabon | 2008

    Proforest's Christopher Stewart and Tim Rayden were in Gabon from March 31st untill April 4th to facilitate a workshop aimed at producing a guidance document or ‘National Interpretation’ of the six High Conservation Values listed in the ProForest HCVF Toolkit. Read more

  • Annual Summer Training Programme

    Individual participants | 2002 ongoing

    Awareness of sustainability issues is growing worldwide. People working in all forms of natural resource management need to understand what the issues are and what they mean in practice. Each summer, Proforest offers a unique Natural Resource Training Programme in the UK to help fill this gap. Read more

  • HCV training for The Nature Conservancy Brazil

    The Nature Conservancy (TNC) | 2011

    The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Brazil ran a one week course for its Atlantic Forest and Central Savannas Conservation Program Team and partners on 'Sustainability and Certification of Agricultural Commodities'. Within this course, Proforest delivered a training day on High Conservation Values. Read more

  • High Conservation Value Training for GFTN managers

    GFTN | 2010

    A 3 day classroom and field based training programme for managers of WWF GFTN national offices across the world. Read more