In a recently published article in the journal Land Use Policy, we reflect on the impact of a public program of payments for forest conservation in the outskirts of Mexico city. Have been such payments effective in protecting forests? What are the main challenges in this regard? Have been payments a means to support local people’s social organisation and to enhance their financial and other material assets? How desirable and viable are this kind of direct payment programs in a context of rampant land speculation and increasing urbanisation? Is there a future for payments of this kind in other metropolis around the world? The article abstract can be read here (see Publications section for further details).