The objectives and principles of the RIL techniques in the tropics are described and a review presented of the most important results of research carried out on the impact of logging on the remaining stand and forest dynamics. The main objective of RIL techniques is to reduce substantially disturbances to soil and residual vegetation in comparison with conventional logging. RIL is mainly based on close planning and control of all harvesting operations. The amount of logging damage not only depends on the techniques used but also on logging intensity. In Africa, logging damage is usually slight because harvesting intensity rarely exceeds 2 trees per ha. The extreme picture is found in South East Asia where logging intensity averages 9 trees per ha; this involves damage which can affect half of the forest stand. With such logging intensities, RIL techniques are not efficient in reducing damage significantly.