In the heart of Nepal’s mid-hills, a silent revolution is underway. Abandoned agricultural lands are slowly transforming back into forests, a process known as forest succession. This phenomenon, often seen as a form of rewilding, is reshaping landscapes and livelihoods in ways that scientists are only beginning to understand. Dr. Nicola McGunnigle, a researcher at the School of Agriculture, Food & Wine at the University of Adelaide, has delved into this complex issue, publishing her findings in ‘People and Nature’ (People and Nature).
McGunnigle’s research reveals a nuanced picture of how communities perceive and interact with these regenerating forests. “The causes of agrarian-forest transitions are complex and often compounding,” McGunnigle explains. “With out-migration from rural areas and a shift away from subsistence agriculture, new and cyclic conflicts are emerging.”
The study highlights that while the processes of rewilding and regenerating forest are largely synonymous, the language used to describe them can significantly impact public perception. Terms like ‘wild’ and ‘wilderness’ often evoke negative experiences, such as human-wildlife conflict and invasive species. This suggests that the term ‘rewilding’ might pose more challenges than ‘regenerating forest’ when it comes to managing forest transitions.
Despite these challenges, McGunnigle’s research also uncovers a silver lining. Rural households in the study area recognized diverse livelihood benefits from regenerating forest species. Some respondents have even adopted agroforestry systems, integrating these species into their agricultural practices. “Diverse livelihood benefits were recognised by rural households in the study area,” McGunnigle notes, underscoring the potential for co-existence of emerging forests within traditional agricultural landscapes.
This research has significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in regions where biomass energy is a critical component of the rural economy. As forests regenerate, they can provide a sustainable source of biomass, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy initiatives. However, this transition requires careful management to balance the needs of local communities with environmental conservation efforts.
McGunnigle’s findings also underscore the importance of guiding stakeholders to identify and develop opportunities for regenerating forests during transitions. This approach could deliver positive outcomes for sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity conservation in Nepal and beyond. As the world grapples with climate change and the need for sustainable development, understanding and harnessing the potential of regenerating forests could be a game-changer.
The study published in ‘People and Nature’ serves as a call to action for policymakers and environmental managers. It emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach that acknowledges the complexities of agrarian-forest transitions and works with, rather than against, the natural processes at play. By doing so, we can pave the way for a future where regenerating forests contribute to both biodiversity targets and livelihood benefits, shaping a more sustainable and resilient world.
The research by McGunnigle and her team opens up new avenues for future developments in the field. As we continue to grapple with the challenges of climate change and sustainable development, understanding the dynamics of forest succession and rewilding will be crucial. The insights from this study could inform future research, policy development, and on-the-ground practices, helping to create a more harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world.