Governments can make better decisions if they are more aware how forest ecosystems contribute to their economy and employment, and how forests benefit human well-being. This information could provide all concerned ministries with the necessary knowledge to decide how tropical deforestation rates can be reduced as part of a transition to a green economy. This Discussion Forum provides an overview of recent forest economic valuations carried out in Zambia, Tanzania and Panama by the UN-REDD Programme. Besides presenting key findings of these studies, the panellists will demonstrate how the results have been or can be used by their respective government agencies – including by incorporating them in the development of national REDD+ Strategies.