In the heart of Western Africa, a complex dance is unfolding between local communities, their forests, and the future of sustainable land management. A recent study published in ‘Trees, Forests and People’ sheds light on the intricate relationships between socio-economic pressures, perceptions of forest degradation, and measurable changes in forest health. The research, led by Samuel Hepner from the University of Bern, offers valuable insights that could reshape how we approach forest management and conservation in the region.
The study, which surveyed 1956 respondents across seven forests in Togo, Benin, Nigeria, and Cameroon, reveals a nuanced picture of forest use and degradation. Most forest users gather non-timber forest products, but hunting and logging also play significant roles. “Forests affected by logging and fire, or conversion to agriculture, were perceived as degraded,” explains Hepner. This perception is not without foundation, as respondents noted the disappearance of large, old trees, various plant and animal species, and the loss of forested areas over the years.
However, the study also highlights a disconnect between perceived and measured degradation. For instance, the community under the highest pressure on forests was the least concerned about degradation, while those near strictly protected and sacred forests were most concerned. This discrepancy underscores the complexity of local perceptions and the need for a more holistic approach to forest management.
The findings have significant implications for the agriculture sector, which often competes with forests for land. As forests degrade, their ability to provide ecosystem services—such as water regulation, soil conservation, and carbon sequestration—diminishes. This can lead to increased agricultural risks, including soil erosion, reduced water availability, and lower crop yields. “Understanding the interplay between local perceptions, measurable degradation, and pressure on forest resources is crucial for guiding sustainable forest management,” Hepner emphasizes.
The research suggests that integrating local knowledge with scientific data could lead to more effective conservation strategies. For example, recognizing the importance of sacred forests, which are often perceived as less degraded, could help protect these areas and the ecosystem services they provide. Similarly, addressing the shifting baseline syndrome—where each generation perceives the state of the environment as normal, despite gradual degradation—could foster a greater sense of urgency among communities facing high forest pressure.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, this study offers a timely reminder of the importance of community engagement in conservation efforts. By bridging the gap between local perceptions and scientific measurements, we can work towards more sustainable and equitable forest management practices. The research, led by Samuel Hepner from the Land Systems and Sustainable Land Management division at the University of Bern, provides a roadmap for future developments in the field, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches that value both local knowledge and scientific expertise.