The book provides theoretical and practical guidelines to use and enhance the potential of forests to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel resources. To understand the interactions linked with such concepts, the book addresses the following topics: forest dynamics and carbon budget; deforestation and afforestation; emerging programs for sustainable development; timber as substitute for high energy materials and fossil fuels; forest responses to climate change and socioeconomic pressures; policy aspects. Apart from the production of timber, forests fulfill numerous additional ecological and social functions. This book has a strong interdisciplinary focus and integrates global aspects with regional and national studies.