Decentralization processes in this region take many forms, and are driven by many different motivations. Poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability are just two of government is reasons for decentralizing. These goals often take second place to such considerations as administrative efficiency, reducing the fiscal burdens of central government, and bowing to donor pressure. This paper argues that, given the current situation in the region is uplands, it essential that decentralization reforms do not exacerbate make poverty and environmental degradation even worse.