The challenge of deforestation in tropical Africa: reflections on its principal causes, consequences and solutions

摘要: Economic development is dependant on factors including capital, labour force and natural resources. Forests are resources which, if properly managed, can provide habitats for animal plant species, pasture livestock, wood shelter, timber fuelwood, land agriculture have a favourable effect weather climatic patterns. Nevertheless, deforestation has been widespread phenomenon in tropical Africa, with an annual forest clearance of between 1·3–3·7 million ha. This paper reviews the pattern Africa by examining its causes consequences, as well assessing prospects attempts being made to control it. It identifies subsistence farming principal determinant deforestation, but does not consider ignorance small-scale farmers underlying cause. Given deteriorating agricultural production, argues that issue how stop depletion, manage enable community meets objectives effective, fair efficient basis. An approach which releases part rural population from or provides alternative form secure livelihood example sustainable strategies managing forests. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.