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Effects of deforestation on soil erosion in Nigeria

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Lacanja burn

Deforestation can be said to be the process of cutting down trees or clearing forests for either agricultural, commercial, residential, or industrial purposes.[1] It has become an increasingly important environmental concern as it has adverse effects on the ecosystem, including soil erosion.[2][3]

Soil erosion

Occurrences of Soil erosion

Soil erosion is the process by which soil particles are displaced and transported from one location to another, leaving the underlying soil exposed and vulnerable to further erosion.[4] Soil erosion is the result of natural physical forces, such as water and wind, gradually wearing away the topsoil in a field.[5] This process can be slow and inconspicuous or occur rapidly, leading to significant topsoil loss.[5] Apart from soil erosion, there are other severe soil degradation issues, including soil compaction, reduced organic matter, loss of soil structure, inadequate internal drainage, salinization, and soil acidity problems.[5] Soil erosion, along with its consequences for humanity, presents a formidable challenge that jeopardizes both people and the socio-economic progress of their surroundings. Addressing and mitigating the impacts of this phenomenon necessitate immediate, swift, and pressing action to pave the way for sustainable development.[6]

Effects of deforestation on soil erosion

Deforestation has numerous impacts on soil erosion, including:

  • Loss of vegetation cover: When trees are cut down, the vegetation cover that protects the soil from flooding wind, and other erosive forces is lost.[7] This exposes the soil to the atmospheric elements and makes it more susceptible to erosion.[8] The study discovered that the carbon cycle and ecosystem resilience are greatly impacted by urbanization in conjunction with shifting hydrology and land resources. Global warming is caused by an increase in carbon emissions and land surface temperature (LST) brought on by the loss of vegetative cover (VC) in metropolitan areas. Additionally, VC loss and LST showed a positive link in the study, indicating that reducing urbanization and boosting carbon sinks through afforestation could help lessen the effects of climate change.[9]
  • Reduced soil organic matter: Trees and other vegetation contribute to the buildup of organic matter in the soil. When these plants are removed, the organic matter content of the soil decreases, making it less able to hold water and more susceptible to erosion.[10] It is more difficult to raise or maintain levels of biological activity and soil organic matter when human activity is present. It takes consistent work to maintain soil organic matter, including crop rotation and the return of organic resources. Due to quick decomposition, well-aerated soils and warm, humid climates present special challenges. In cold temperate and moist-wet environments, fine-textured soils can sustain organic matter levels with less residue. Tillage and burning are examples of management techniques that can harm soil organisms, resulting in erosion and the loss of organic matter.[11]
  • Increased runoff: Deforestation leads to an increase in runoff, as water is no longer absorbed by the vegetation and instead runs off the surface of the soil.[12] This increases the erosive power of the water and can lead to the formation of gullies and other erosive features.
  • Soil compaction: Deforestation can also lead to soil compaction, as heavy machinery is often used to clear the land.[13] Compacted soil is less able to absorb water and is more susceptible to erosion. Compaction of the soil is an essential feature of building because it reduces the air spaces between soil particles, densifying the soil. Because of this, the soils become more compacted and have a larger unit weight, which is necessary for a sturdy working platform. To improve soil density and bearing strength, compaction tools such rammers, pneumatic rollers, padfoot and tamping foot rollers, and smooth rollers are utilized.[14] While padfoot and tamping foot rollers disrupt the natural links between particles for greater compaction, smooth rollers use static pressure, vibration, and impact to compact soil. While rammers are lightweight and portable for tight spaces, pneumatic rollers employ staggered rubber tires with variable air pressure for small to medium-sized soil compaction projects.[14] Depending on the kind of soil being compacted, the appropriate compaction equipment must be used. While coarse-grained soils are granular and cohesive, organic soils are not appropriate for compaction or construction. An important factor in determining the ultimate level of compaction is the equipment selection for a certain type of soil. Because it gives the project a solid functional foundation, soil compaction is an essential step in the construction process. For structural elements like slabs, footings, and foundations, it is imperative to enhance the bearing capacity and stiffness of in-situ (natural state) soil. By rupturing the innate linkages between fine-grained soil particles, padfoot and tamping foot rollers can compact soils with higher cohesive contents. With their staggered rubber tires and variable air pressure, pneumatic rollers are an effective tool for small to medium-sized soil compaction tasks. Particularly for cramped workspaces or tiny locations, tamping rammers are lightweight and portable. Puddles in yards, settling cracks in foundations, and bowing sidewalks are all examples of the detrimental effects of inadequate or incorrect soil compaction. Early soil compacting during construction reduces these impacts and guarantees a sturdy working platform. There are several possibilities for soil compaction equipment, each having advantages of their own.[14]
  • Loss of biodiversity: Deforestation also leads to a loss of biodiversity, which can have indirect effects on soil erosion. Biodiverse ecosystems are more resilient to environmental stresses, including erosion, and the loss of species can make ecosystems more vulnerable to erosion. Ecologically and economically, biodiversity loss is substantial, especially for species whose populations are declining. A species' long-term existence is threatened by the loss of genes and individuals because fewer partners become available and the likelihood of inbreeding increases when closely related survivors mate. A declining biodiversity lowers the complexity, productivity, and quality of services provided by an ecosystem. The ecology can become unstable and collapse if it loses its ability to bounce back from disruptions. "Ecosystem homogenization" throughout the globe and across areas is another effect of decreased biodiversity. While generalist species and species that people like become important roles in ecosystems vacated by specialist species, specialist species are frequently the most vulnerable to population decreases and extinctison when conditions change. Each ecosystem loses some of its complexity and uniqueness as a result. Common food crops like Cavendish bananas, which are susceptible to Tropical Race (TR) 4, a fusarium wilt fungus that obstructs the flow of water and nutrients, have more obvious economic and societal repercussions. Since 1900, an excessive reliance on crop varieties with high yields has led to the extinction of around 75% of food crops. Lost species indicate missed chances to treat and eradicate illnesses like Chagas disease and malaria. In order to combat biodiversity loss, a combination of economic and governmental policies, as well as ongoing research and outreach, are required. To encourage the preservation of natural environments and shield species inside them from needless harvesting, governments, nongovernmental organizations, and the scientific community must collaborate. Other crucial aspects are sustainable development, legislation against poaching and the indiscriminate trade in wildlife, and port inspections of shipping cargo.[15] Governmental cooperation, safeguarding surviving species from overfishing and poaching, and preserving their habitats and ecosystems are all essential to halting the loss of biodiversity.[15]

Ways to curb deforestation and reduce soil erosion

If the following steps are put into practice, deforestation can be stopped thereby reducing soil erosion

1. Sustainable logging practices: Use responsible methods for harvesting trees to minimize negative impacts on the environment. The logging and tree-harvesting methods that are considered sustainable have developed from earlier methods that upset natural ecosystems and decimated forests. The fundamental tenet of sustainable logging is to strike a balance between the value of forest products from an economic and ecological perspective. This necessitates a thorough plan for each possible logging site, including thoughtful site selection and harvesting designs that mimic the effects of nature.

Biologists, geologists, and ecologists are among the specialists that work together to create a thorough examination of the region for sustainable logging. Patchwork logging allows the surrounding forest to adjust to the clearance as it would to a natural event since it is more focused and accurate. It also permits harvesting cycles and protects endangered tree species. By removing certain trees, selective harvesting thins the forest and gives smaller trees already there more room and light to flourish. Particularly useful is this kind of sustainable logging in tropical regions devoid of natural occurrences that resemble clear-cutting areas. Additional environmental benefits of sustainable logging include minimizing erosion and runoff by keeping felled trees and regions away from waterways. Additionally, by having fewer personnel and less equipment in each location, it offers a safer working environment.[16]

Since sustainable logging promotes climate action and enhances the general health of woods, it can be extremely important to forest management. Given that 1.5 million square miles of tropical forests are currently being selectively cut, these forests are of great interest for climate action. If selective harvesting methods were widely used, these forests may continue to serve as economic anchors while retaining a large portion of their biodiversity and carbon reserves. In summary, sustainable logging methods use innovative technology, rigorous research, and common sense to maintain the health of forests around the world, support several communities' economies, and satisfy the market for lumber and other forest-derived goods.

[17]

2. Reforestation efforts: Planting more trees helps restore forest cover and prevent soil erosion. A key tactic for reducing climate change and promoting biodiversity is reforestation. Trees are carbon sinks because they use photosynthesis to absorb carbon dioxide. Greenhouse gas emissions can be effectively reduced by planting trees and rehabilitating forests. Trees retain carbon as they get older, which makes reforestation a useful tactic in reducing the effects of climate change. For all life on Earth to survive, biodiversity must be preserved, and forests are rich ecosystems home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. Reforested regions support biodiversity hotspot protection and serve as refuges for threatened species. The long-term survival of a diverse flora and fauna is guaranteed by the interdependence of many species within the ecosystem. Ecosystems that are in good health and sustainable agriculture depend on healthy soil.[18]

Reforestation improves the structure of the soil and reduces erosion, protecting and restoring its health. Water is naturally filtered by trees as it moves through the environment. We can greatly improve the quality of the water by reforesting watersheds and planting trees alongside streams. Reforestation is crucial for controlling water flow, absorbing precipitation, lowering surface runoff, and averting flooding. It also lessens the chance of droughts and water shortages by assisting in the maintenance of balanced water systems. By functioning as natural air conditioners, forests have the amazing capacity to control local and regional climates, reducing the impact of the urban heat island effect. We can improve overall climate resilience and create microclimates that offer relief from the heat by carefully placing trees in urban areas.[19]

Beyond their positive effects on the environment, reforestation programs can generate income through eco-tourism, non-timber forest products, and sustainable wood harvesting. They also offer non-timber forest products that can be harvested responsibly and sold to generate cash, as well as ecosystem services. Finally, woods are important for culture and society because they offer areas for study, enjoyment, and teaching. Through engaging nearby communities in tree-planting events, we may fortify our relationships, encourage environmental responsibility, and together construct a sustainable future.[20]

3. Regulations on illegal logging: Implement strict laws and enforcement to deter illegal logging activities. This discussion paper addresses the problem of defining "illegal logging" and its effects on many sectors, including the forest sector, for the FAO Advisory Committee on Paper and Wood Products. Along with industrialized nations like the United States, developing and transitioning economies have also expressed concern. Consumer nations fuel the problem by purchasing forest products, providing funds for illicit activity, and providing avenues for the laundering of goods and earnings from illicit commerce.[21]

The impact of illicit logging on the environment, trade, social welfare, government, and revenue is a major cause for worry. Villagers taking direct action and high-level discussions between production and consumer nations are examples of recent trends. The European Commission published its draft Action Plan for Forest Law Enforcement, Governance, and Trade (FLEGT) in May 2003. The plan focuses on areas such as Southeast Asia, the tropical South and South Africa, Russia, and Central Africa. The draft plan suggests working together between the EU and nations that produce timber to put in place efficient procedures for tracing timber from its point of origin to its ultimate markets and separating legal from unlawful production.[22]

In the event that a nation declines to establish a FLEGT Partnership, it also suggests a voluntary licensing program to guarantee that only legally harvested timber is imported from these nations and the viability of legislation to restrict imports of unlawfully harvested timber into the EU. The technical and political issues of illicit logging in Africa were examined during the African Forest Law Enforcement and Governance (FLEG) ministerial meeting held in October 2003 in Yaoundé, Cameroon. In a declaration, the ministers promised to combat breaches of forest law by bolstering domestic programs and encouraging bilateral, regional, and international cooperation.[23] Nigeria should embrace these idea and ensure that illegal logging is controlled in its environment.

4. Education on forest conservation: Raise awareness about the importance of forests and how they contribute to soil conservation. In order to encourage responsible stewardship of natural resources and spark interest in careers in conservation, the Forest Service conducts conservation education programs for all age groups. Parents, teachers, and students are all involved in these experiential learning opportunities.[24]

There is a need to teach schoolchildren about biodiversity and forest protection while highlighting the connection between educational tourism and forest conservation. The local government, organizations, media, tour guides, teachers, and tour operators can all play a big part in putting this into practice.[25]

In addition to keeping the climate stable, forests are essential for fostering healthier populations and more robust economies. The standard and accessibility of the education and training required to equip forest managers and policymakers for sustainable management and to educate future generations, however, are a cause for increasing worry. We must improve forest education and motivate the next generation of forest managers if we hope to see forests reach their full potential in accomplishing development goals, like SDG 13. With the goal of improving national and local levels and addressing gaps in forest education, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) Committee on Forestry is evaluating forest education throughout six regions.[26]

To inspire the next generation of foresters, it is important to make information on forest education and learning resources easily accessible and to establish in young children a respect for forests and the need for sustainable management. Germany is helping the FAO implement a project that will introduce focused forest education to students in grades 9 through 12, with a trial program of lessons designed specifically for Tanzania and the Philippines. To equip present and future generations to safeguard land and water resources, biodiversity, and livelihoods, it is imperative to enhance public education about forests and forestry.

5. Agroforestry and sustainable land use: Encourage practices that combine agriculture and forestry to promote sustainable land management. By fusing technology from forestry and agriculture, agroforestry is a sustainable land-use system that produces a variety of profitable and productive systems. It offers ecological services, incorporates annual and perennial plants, and frequently incorporates animals. It increases farm resilience, increases soil fertility, and lessens the effects of human activity on natural forests. For integrated rural and urban growth, agroforestry is essential, but climate change can have a detrimental effect on ecosystems, resulting in pests, illnesses, and food shortages.

6. Use of alternative materials: Find alternatives to wood products to reduce the demand for logging.[27]In place of too-cut trees, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is advocating for substitute materials for items like tissues, diapers, and toilet paper. This movement seeks to encourage ethical forest management while lessening the strain on forests. WWF urges US businesses to source more alternative materials for their products or to produce more of them, and it also urges customers to purchase goods made of these materials. Reclaimed wood, sawdust and wood shavings, plants that naturally produce pulp, lesser-known tree species like crab wood, wawabima, and caraco, and recycled paper are a few substitutes. These substitutes may be economically feasible, socially and environmentally advantageous, and environmentally friendly. WWF urges customers to purchase goods made of these materials and, if they don't already, to lobby retailers to start carrying them. The WWF intends to lessen the strain on forests and encourage good forest management by implementing these solutions.[28]

7. Advocacy for forest protection: Support policies and initiatives that prioritize the preservation of forests and their ecosystems.[29] By educating members, stakeholders, and decision-makers on land conservation and forestry issues, the Forest Society influences policies that are made at the legislative and administrative levels. In order to guarantee a thorough grasp of topics, including a variety of viewpoints, in particular public policy domains, should cooperate with partners and organize dialogues.

To protect animal resources, the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has urged stakeholders to become more involved and educate themselves about the environment. The NCF and the Ogun State Ministry of Forestry worked together to highlight the critical need to stop wildlife crime and human-caused species extinction, as these issues have an influence on the environment, economy, and society. Public-private partnerships and group collaboration were encouraged by the NCF to help the government in this battle.[30]

[31]

To protect the nation's biodiversity, the Wild Africa Fund has urged the Nigerian government and conservation groups to work together to prevent wildlife and forest crimes. The nonprofit, with an emphasis on Africa, stresses the value of collaborations in the preservation of wildlife. The group raises awareness of the threats to iconic wildlife species including elephants, lions, and gorillas, posed by poaching, deforestation, and the illegal wildlife trade. The group works to guarantee that wildlife in Africa has a better future through collaboration with local communities, NGOs, the government, and the media.

Following these steps will protect our forests and preserve our planet!

References

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  2. ^ Soken-Huberty, Emmaline (2022-07-15). "10 Negative Effects of Deforestation". Human Rights Careers. Retrieved 2023-06-09.
  3. ^ Igini, Martina (2023-04-06). "How Does Deforestation Affect the Environment?". Earth.Org. Retrieved 2023-06-14.
  4. ^ "erosion". education.nationalgeographic.org. Retrieved 2023-06-09.
  5. ^ a b c Balasubramanian, A (2017). "Soil Erosion- Causes and Effects". Centre for Advanced Studies in Earth Science. doi:10.13140/RG.2.2.26247.39841.
  6. ^ Adegboyega, E.R (2019). "The impact of soil erosion on agricultural land and productivity in Efon Alaaye, Ekiti State". International Journal of Agricultural Policy and Research. 7 (2): 32–40. doi:10.15739/ijapr.19.004. ISSN 2350-1561.
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  8. ^ Tang, Chongjun; Liu, Yu; Li, Zhongwu; Guo, Liping; Xu, Aizhen; Zhao, Jiading (2021-10-01). "Effectiveness of vegetation cover pattern on regulating soil erosion and runoff generation in red soil environment, southern China". Ecological Indicators. 129: 107956. doi:10.1016/j.ecolind.2021.107956. ISSN 1470-160X.
  9. ^ Kafy, Abdulla - Al; Faisal, Abdullah-Al-; Al Rakib, Abdullah; Fattah, Md. Abdul; Rahaman, Zullyadini A.; Sattar, Golam Sabbir (2022-01-15). "Impact of vegetation cover loss on surface temperature and carbon emission in a fastest-growing city, Cumilla, Bangladesh". Building and Environment. 208: 108573. doi:10.1016/j.buildenv.2021.108573. ISSN 0360-1323.
  10. ^ "The importance of soil organic matter". www.fao.org. Retrieved 2023-09-13.
  11. ^ "The importance of soil organic matter". www.fao.org. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  12. ^ Fahad (2022-03-02). "How Does Deforestation Lead to Floods and Droughts?". Earth Reminder. Retrieved 2023-10-02.
  13. ^ "Chapter 4 : Land Degradation — Special Report on Climate Change and Land". Retrieved 2023-10-02.
  14. ^ a b c Team, Mintek (2020-07-20). "The Importance of Soil Compaction in Construction". Mintek Resources. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  15. ^ a b "Carbon footprint | Definition, Examples, Calculation, Effects, & Facts | Britannica". www.britannica.com. 2023-09-25. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  16. ^ Nerger, Matt (2016-07-28). "What is Sustainable Forestry?". Rainforest Alliance. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  17. ^ "Sustainable Logging Practices – Nature's Packaging". Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  18. ^ "Reforestation: Purposes, Impact, & Methods Of Implementation". eos.com. 2023-05-29. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  19. ^ Editor. "Reforestation: 10 Amazing benefits of planting trees". www.green.earth. Retrieved 2023-10-21. {{cite web}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  20. ^ "Prescribed fire | Definition, History, & Benefits | Britannica". www.britannica.com. 2023-10-11. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  21. ^ "Proceedings ACPWP 45th Session". www.fao.org. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  22. ^ "Illegal Logging". Compliance & Risks. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  23. ^ Pilgram, C. Browne and Catherine Lena Kelly and and Carl. "Illegal Logging in Africa and Its Security Implications". Africa Center for Strategic Studies. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  24. ^ "Conservation Education". US Forest Service. 2022-12-30. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  25. ^ Bhuiyan, Md. Anowar Hossain; Islam, Rabiul; Siwar, Chamhuri; Ismail, Shaharuddin Mohamad (2010-01-01). "Educational Tourism and Forest Conservation: Diversification for Child Education". Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences. International Conference on Learner Diversity 2010. 7: 19–23. doi:10.1016/j.sbspro.2010.10.003. ISSN 1877-0428.
  26. ^ Hub, IISD's SDG Knowledge. "Guest Article: Boosting Education for Greener Forests | SDG Knowledge Hub | IISD". Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  27. ^ "Reducing Demand for Timber - Sustainable Forestry and Ecolabelling are Not Enough". www.rainforestinfo.org.au. Retrieved 2023-10-02.
  28. ^ "5 Best Materials to Use as Wood Substitute For Construction, Flooring, Furniture and Many More". Interior Door & Closet Company. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  29. ^ St.Concord, Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests54 Portsmouth (2014-09-04). "Forest Society Advocacy". Forest Society. Retrieved 2023-10-02.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  30. ^ Simire, Michael (2023-03-09). "Foundation advocates concerted efforts in conserving wildlife". EnviroNews Nigeria. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
  31. ^ Okeh, Amarachi (2023-03-03). "Partnerships key to protecting wildlife in Nigeria - Wild Africa Fund". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 2023-10-21.
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