Nigeria currently faces the highest deforestation rate in Africa. In the last five years, it has lost over half of its primary forests. Logging, subsistence agriculture, and fuelwood collection drive this loss. This destruction leads to a significant decline, impacting nearly 90% of West Africa’s rainforests.
The effects of severe deforestation in Africa are profound. Biodiversity loss occurs when diverse plant and animal species lose their habitats. This loss disrupts ecosystems and threatens wildlife. Additionally, deforestation contributes to climate change. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, and their removal increases greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This change impacts weather patterns and contributes to extreme weather events.
Severe deforestation predominantly occurs in regions like the Congo Basin and parts of West Africa. These areas face intense pressure from agriculture and logging activities. Understanding the specific causes and effects highlights the urgency of addressing this crisis.
Moving forward, it is crucial to explore potential solutions and conservation strategies to combat severe deforestation in Africa effectively. These approaches can help restore balance to ecosystems and protect the environment for future generations.
What is Deforestation in Africa and Why is It a Critical Issue?
Deforestation in Africa refers to the large-scale removal of trees from forested areas for non-forest use. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), it involves the reduction of forest cover resulting in loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecosystem services.
The FAO defines deforestation as “the conversion of forest to a non-forest use,” highlighting its impact on environmental stability. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) further emphasizes that deforestation can lead to habitat loss for countless species.
Deforestation in Africa manifests through several aspects, including industrial logging, agricultural expansion, and urban development. These activities reduce forest cover and can lead to soil erosion and climate change.
The World Resources Institute provides that “deforestation results in the loss of critical habitats, exacerbating climate change and biodiversity loss.” This indicates the urgency of addressing deforestation’s consequences on wildlife and ecosystems.
Key causes of deforestation in Africa include agriculture, logging, and infrastructure development. The demand for land for crops and livestock drives significant tree removal.
According to a 2020 report by Global Forest Watch, Africa lost 3.9 million hectares of tree cover in 2019 alone. Projections suggest that if current trends continue, the continent could lose 11% of its forested areas by 2030.
The broader impacts of deforestation include increased carbon emissions, loss of habitats, and disruptions to local communities’ livelihoods.
Health, environment, society, and economy dimensions face challenges from deforestation. For instance, it may contribute to respiratory diseases due to air pollution and can exacerbate poverty by reducing resources for communities.
Specific examples of deforestation impacts include the decline of gorilla populations in Central Africa and soil degradation affecting smallholder farmers.
To address deforestation, the United Nations suggests promoting sustainable land use practices, reforestation efforts, and enforcing stricter regulations on logging.
Strategies include agroforestry, where crops and trees coexist, and the development of sustainable logging practices. Technologies such as satellite monitoring can also help track deforestation efforts.
What Are the Main Causes of Deforestation in Africa?
Deforestation in Africa mainly occurs due to agricultural expansion, logging, infrastructure development, and illegal activities.
- Agricultural expansion
- Logging and timber extraction
- Infrastructure development
- Illegal activities and poaching
- Climate change and environmental degradation
These causes illustrate the complex interplay between economic growth, environmental sustainability, and societal needs.
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Agricultural Expansion:
Agricultural expansion drives deforestation in Africa as communities clear forests for crops and livestock. This practice often leads to habitat loss. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, 2020), agriculture accounts for approximately 80% of deforestation in tropical regions. A specific case is the expansion of palm oil plantations in countries like Cameroon and Nigeria, which significantly alters forest landscapes. -
Logging and Timber Extraction:
Logging and timber extraction significantly contribute to deforestation in Africa. These activities involve cutting down trees for wood and paper products. The World Resources Institute (WRI, 2021) reports that over 35% of Africa’s forests are logged unsustainably. An example includes the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where illegal logging operations degrade large forested areas, impacting biodiversity. -
Infrastructure Development:
Infrastructure development causes deforestation by constructing roads, urban centers, and energy projects. This expansion often leads to increased accessibility for illegal logging and agricultural activities. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN, 2019) states that road construction in forested areas opens up previously inaccessible regions, leading to significant deforestation rates, particularly in places like Mozambique. -
Illegal Activities and Poaching:
Illegal activities, including poaching and unregulated resource extraction, lead to deforestation due to the destruction of habitats and ecosystems. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS, 2022) estimates that poaching contributes to habitat loss in protected areas, making it increasingly difficult for tree populations to thrive. Many regions, like the Congo Basin, face severe challenges as illegal activities disrupt forest health. -
Climate Change and Environmental Degradation:
Climate change exacerbates deforestation by altering weather patterns, leading to droughts and forest fires. These environmental changes can degrade forests beyond recuperation. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, 2021) notes that climate change poses an additional stressor, affecting biodiversity and leading to further deforestation. Unfortunately, many regions in Africa struggle with these adverse effects, compounding the challenges of sustainable forest management.
How Does Agricultural Expansion Drive Deforestation in Africa?
Agricultural expansion drives deforestation in Africa through several interconnected mechanisms. First, the demand for food increases as the population grows. Farmers respond by clearing forests to create more farmland. This land conversion usually involves cutting down trees and removing vegetation.
Second, cash crops such as palm oil, cocoa, and coffee are increasingly sought after in global markets. Farmers cultivate these crops in place of native forests, leading to significant tree loss.
Third, government policies often promote agricultural growth over environmental protection. Incentives to expand farmland can result in legal and illegal logging activities, further depleting forest resources.
Fourth, inadequate land management practices contribute to soil degradation and reduced fertility. As a result, farmers may seek new land, leading to more deforestation as they clear additional forested areas.
Lastly, infrastructure development for transportation and market access often accompanies agricultural projects. New roads and facilities lead to easier access to previously remote forest areas, increasing the likelihood of further deforestation.
In summary, agricultural expansion in Africa drives deforestation through increased demand for food, cultivation of cash crops, government policies favoring agriculture, poor land management practices, and infrastructure development. Each of these factors contributes to the systematic loss of forests across the continent.
In What Ways Does Logging Contribute to Deforestation in Africa?
Logging contributes to deforestation in Africa in several key ways. First, logging activities directly remove trees from forests. This results in loss of vegetation and disrupts the ecosystem. Second, logging often leads to forest fragmentation. When trees are cut down, it creates gaps in the forest cover. This disrupts wildlife habitats and can threaten various species. Third, logging opens up access to previously remote areas. This increased access often leads to more illegal logging, agriculture, and settlement. Fourth, logging can lead to soil erosion. Without tree roots to hold the soil in place, the land can degrade, resulting in loss of soil fertility. Lastly, logging contributes to climate change. Deforestation releases stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This contributes to the overall global warming crisis. Each of these factors interconnects, illustrating the significant impact logging has on African forests and the environment overall.
How Does Urbanization Intensify Deforestation in Africa?
Urbanization intensifies deforestation in Africa in several interconnected ways. First, urbanization causes population growth. Increased populations in cities demand more housing and infrastructure. This growth leads to the clearing of forests for new buildings and roads. Second, urban centers generate higher demand for agricultural products. As a result, farmers often clear forests to create more farmland to meet this demand.
Third, urbanization drives industrial development. Factories and industries often need raw materials, prompting further deforestation for timber and other resources. Fourth, urban areas experience increased energy needs, leading to the use of wood and charcoal as fuel sources. This reliance results in more trees being cut down.
Fifth, urbanization can weaken land-use policies. Governments may prioritize economic growth over environmental protection. This neglect can encourage illegal logging and land clearing.
In conclusion, urbanization leads to population growth and higher demand for land, food, resources, and energy. These factors together create a cycle that accelerates deforestation in Africa.
What Effects Does Deforestation Have on Africa’s Environment and Communities?
Deforestation in Africa significantly harms both the environment and communities. It leads to biodiversity loss, climate change impacts, soil degradation, and social issues.
- Loss of biodiversity
- Climate change effects
- Soil erosion and degradation
- Water cycle disruption
- Community displacement and social issues
- Economic impacts
The effects of deforestation are deeply interconnected, with each point influencing the others. Understanding these connections helps to illustrate the extensive consequences of forest loss in Africa.
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Loss of Biodiversity: Loss of biodiversity occurs due to deforestation as trees and plants get removed, disrupting ecosystems. This change affects wildlife habitats, leading to species extinction. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF, 2022), around 40% of the world’s mammals, birds, and amphibians are threatened by habitat loss caused by deforestation.
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Climate Change Effects: Climate change effects stem from deforestation as trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. When forests are cleared, carbon is released back, contributing to global warming. The IPCC reports that deforestation accounts for approximately 10-15% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
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Soil Erosion and Degradation: Soil erosion and degradation occur due to the loss of tree roots that hold the soil in place. Without this vegetation, soil becomes more susceptible to erosion from wind and water. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicates that soil erosion reduces agricultural productivity and can lead to food insecurity for communities reliant on farming.
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Water Cycle Disruption: Water cycle disruption arises when trees are removed. Trees play a crucial role in transpiration, where they release water vapor into the atmosphere, influencing local weather patterns and rainfall. The World Bank (2021) highlights that deforestation can decrease rainfall by up to 30% in some regions, affecting agricultural yields and drinking water supplies.
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Community Displacement and Social Issues: Community displacement and social issues occur as indigenous people and local communities often depend on forests for their livelihoods. Deforestation can force these groups to relocate, leading to loss of culture and social cohesion. A report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN, 2022) emphasizes that land loss has exacerbated tensions and conflicts among communities competing for dwindling resources.
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Economic Impacts: Economic impacts result from the loss of forest resources, which are vital for local economies. Deforestation can decrease income from timber, non-timber forest products, and tourism. The African Development Bank (2021) states that sustainable forest management could contribute significantly to economic growth, while deforestation leads to long-term economic decline in affected areas.
Deforestation’s consequences are multifaceted, affecting not just the environment, but also the socio-economic fabric of communities in Africa.
How Does Deforestation Impact Biodiversity in Africa’s Ecosystems?
Deforestation significantly impacts biodiversity in Africa’s ecosystems. Deforestation reduces the habitats available for various species. When trees are cut down, many animals and plants lose their homes. This loss leads to a decline in species populations. Some species may even face extinction if their habitat disappears completely.
The removal of trees also disrupts the balance of ecosystems. Plants, animals, and microorganisms interact within these systems. Each species plays a role, contributing to nutrient cycling and energy flow. Deforestation alters this natural process, diminishing ecosystem resilience. Without diverse species, ecosystems become less stable and less able to recover from disturbances such as climate change.
In addition, deforestation can lead to fragmentation of habitats. Fragmentation separates wildlife into isolated groups. This separation makes it harder for animals to find mates and food. As a result, genetic diversity decreases, making them more vulnerable to diseases and environmental changes.
Moreover, deforestation affects soil health. Trees help anchor the soil and prevent erosion. When trees are removed, soil erosion increases, leading to loss of nutrients. This degradation further harms plant species and reduces the availability of food for herbivores.
Finally, humans often exploit the land for agriculture or urban development after deforestation. This exploitation further reduces biodiversity by converting diverse habitats into single-crop farms or cities. As a result, the overall richness of species in Africa decreases, threatening ecological balance and sustainability.
In summary, deforestation leads to habitat loss, species decline, ecosystem disruption, habitat fragmentation, soil degradation, and land exploitation. Each of these factors collectively harms biodiversity in Africa’s ecosystems.
What Are the Consequences of Deforestation on Climate Change in Africa?
Deforestation in Africa has significant consequences on climate change. It leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions, disrupted ecosystems, and altered weather patterns.
- Increased Greenhouse Gas Emissions
- Loss of Biodiversity
- Soil Degradation
- Altered Rainfall Patterns
- Increased Temperature
The consequences of deforestation involve various interconnections and impacts on the environment.
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Increased Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
Increased greenhouse gas emissions occur due to deforestation. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas. When trees are cut down, stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere. According to the IPCC (2018), deforestation contributes approximately 10-15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. A study by Grace et al. (2014) noted that tropical forests alone store about 25% of the world’s carbon. -
Loss of Biodiversity:
Loss of biodiversity occurs as deforestation destroys habitats. Many species rely on forests for food, shelter, and breeding grounds. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) estimates that deforestation threatens about 1 million species globally. In Africa, the Congo Basin’s rich biodiversity faces significant threats due to logging and land conversion. -
Soil Degradation:
Soil degradation results from deforestation, which removes protective vegetation and exposes soil to erosion. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) states that soil erosion can decrease agricultural productivity by up to 75%. This affects food security in regions highly dependent on agriculture. -
Altered Rainfall Patterns:
Altered rainfall patterns occur because forests influence local and regional climates. They help maintain humidity levels and precipitation. According to a study by Spracklen et al. (2012), deforestation in the tropics can lead to a 30% reduction in rainfall, which adversely impacts agriculture and water supply. -
Increased Temperature:
Increased temperature is a consequence of deforestation, as forests provide cooling effects through transpiration. The absence of trees raises local temperatures, according to research by Wang et al. (2020), stating that deforested areas can experience temperature increases of up to 2°C compared to forested regions. This shift affects wildlife and can exacerbate heat-related health issues for communities.
Where is the Most Severe Deforestation Happening in Africa?
The most severe deforestation in Africa is happening in countries like Nigeria, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Nigeria, rapid urbanization and agricultural expansion significantly reduce forest cover. Uganda faces similar challenges due to logging and land clearing for farming. The Democratic Republic of the Congo loses forest area mainly due to illegal logging and mining activities. These actions lead to habitat loss and threaten biodiversity. Addressing these issues requires awareness and immediate conservation efforts to protect remaining forests.
Which African Countries Are Experiencing the Highest Rates of Deforestation?
African countries experiencing the highest rates of deforestation include Cameroon, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, and Madagascar.
- Cameroon
- Brazil
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Ghana
- Madagascar
The discussion of deforestation encompasses several critical factors, including agricultural expansion, illegal logging, urbanization, and climate change impacts.
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Cameroon:
Cameroon experiences significant deforestation due to agricultural expansion. Deforestation here is primarily driven by the production of cash crops like cocoa and palm oil. According to Global Forest Watch, Cameroon lost about 1.6 million hectares of forest between 2000 and 2020. Illegal logging also contributes to the problem, with a lack of enforcement in protecting forest reserves. -
Brazil:
Although primarily a South American country, Brazil’s Amazon rainforest forms part of the ecological dialogue concerning Africa due to global climate concerns. Deforestation in Brazil often reflects significant agricultural land conversion. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, deforestation rates jumped over 10% in recent years, sparking widespread debate on land management. -
Democratic Republic of the Congo:
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) faces severe deforestation, mainly from subsistence agriculture and illegal mining activities. The DRC’s vast forest areas are paramount to global biodiversity. Studies suggest that deforestation rates here could rise sharply if sustainable management strategies are not implemented, with forest loss of approximately 3.2 million hectares reported in a 2021 study by the World Resources Institute. -
Ghana:
Ghana’s forests are disappearing due to illegal logging and cocoa production. The country saw its forest cover shrink by nearly 50% from 1990 to 2020. A 2019 study by the University of Ghana highlighted that a lack of effective policy implementation led to increased deforestation during cocoa farming seasons, underscoring the need for sustainable agricultural practices. -
Madagascar:
Madagascar, renowned for its unique flora and fauna, is experiencing rapid deforestation mainly for slash-and-burn agriculture. The World Wildlife Fund reported that in recent years, Madagascar has lost approximately 400,000 hectares of forest annually. The loss threatens endemic species and has raised significant conservation concerns.
Deforestation in these African countries poses serious environmental and socio-economic challenges, necessitating collaborative global efforts for effective solutions.
What Specific Regions in Africa Are Most Affected by Deforestation?
The specific regions in Africa most affected by deforestation include the Congo Basin, East Africa, West Africa, and parts of Southern Africa.
- Congo Basin
- East Africa
- West Africa
- Southern Africa
These regions face various challenges, such as economic pressures and biodiversity loss. Some experts argue that the deforestation situation emphasizes the need for sustainable development strategies. Others express concern about the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation.
1. Congo Basin:
The Congo Basin experiences significant deforestation due to logging, agriculture, and infrastructure development. The region is the second-largest rainforest in the world, covering parts of six countries. Research indicates that approximately 12 million hectares of forest were lost between 2000 and 2010, according to a 2015 study by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The basin is home to diverse wildlife, including gorillas and elephants. Deforestation here contributes to climate change, as trees that absorb carbon dioxide are removed.
2. East Africa:
In East Africa, countries like Ethiopia and Kenya are facing severe deforestation, primarily due to agricultural expansion and charcoal production. The FAO reported a loss of over 1 million hectares of forest annually in the region. The Ethiopian government’s initiative to plant millions of trees in response aims to address the negative effects of deforestation, such as soil erosion and habitat loss. However, conflicts between land use for agriculture and forestry pose challenges to sustainability.
3. West Africa:
West Africa suffers from extensive deforestation driven by agricultural practices and urbanization. Countries such as Nigeria and Ghana have seen substantial forest degradation. In Ghana, over 60% of its tropical forest cover has been lost since the 1900s due to cocoa and timber production. Studies highlight that deforestation in West Africa results in significant biodiversity loss, affecting various species and ecosystems.
4. Southern Africa:
Southern Africa, particularly countries like Zimbabwe and Mozambique, faces deforestation from logging and land conversion for agricultural use. According to a study by the World Resources Institute in 2020, Southern Africa lost about 2.3 million hectares of forest per year between 2000 and 2018. This region’s deforestation affects water quality and availability, resulting in longer-term ecological impacts. Community-driven conservation efforts have emerged as a response to mitigate these negative effects.
What Are Effective Solutions to Combat Deforestation in Africa?
Effective solutions to combat deforestation in Africa include sustainable land management practices, reforestation initiatives, legal enforcement, community engagement, and promoting agroforestry.
- Sustainable Land Management Practices
- Reforestation Initiatives
- Legal Enforcement
- Community Engagement
- Promoting Agroforestry
Sustainable Land Management Practices:
Sustainable land management practices directly address the causes of deforestation. These practices include crop rotation, contour farming, and integrated pest management. They aim to optimize land use while protecting ecosystems. For instance, according to the FAO, sustainable land management can enhance productivity while reducing soil erosion and improving biodiversity. A case study from Ethiopia shows that sustainable practices in agriculture led to an increase in land productivity and forest coverage.
Reforestation Initiatives:
Reforestation initiatives play a crucial role in restoring forest ecosystems. These initiatives involve planting trees in deforested areas to bring back biodiversity and improve carbon storage. The African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100) aims to restore 100 million hectares of land by 2030. According to the World Resources Institute, such initiatives not only sequester carbon but also provide habitat for wildlife. Countries like Ghana and Mozambique have implemented successful reforestation projects that significantly impacted local ecosystems.
Legal Enforcement:
Legal enforcement helps protect forests from illegal logging and other destructive activities. Stronger laws and regulations can deter deforestation practices. Organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council promote responsible forest management by certifying sustainably managed forests. In some cases, governments in Africa, such as in Gabon, have increased surveillance and enforcement measures that resulted in a notable decrease in illegal logging activities, according to a report by the World Wildlife Fund.
Community Engagement:
Community engagement encourages local populations to participate in forest conservation. Involving communities in decision-making processes fosters responsibility for local resources. The Cameroon Eco-Guards program trained local residents to monitor and protect forest areas, showcasing effective community-led conservation. Reports indicate that community-based initiatives can lead to more sustainable management of forest resources, aligning local economic interests with environmental goals.
Promoting Agroforestry:
Promoting agroforestry integrates trees into agricultural landscapes, providing benefits to both crops and forests. This practice enhances biodiversity, improves soil health, and offers additional sources of income for farmers. The World Agroforestry Centre states that agroforestry systems can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Countries like Kenya have successfully implemented agroforestry projects that not only combat deforestation but also improve food security and livelihoods.
In summary, these solutions reflect a multi-faceted approach to tackling the pressing issue of deforestation in Africa. Each method involves varying degrees of stakeholder engagement and emphasizes the balance between ecological health and economic viability.
Which Organizations are Working to Address Deforestation in Africa and How?
Many organizations are actively addressing deforestation in Africa through various initiatives and partnerships aimed at conservation and sustainable development.
- World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
- The Nature Conservancy
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- African Forest Forum (AFF)
- Rainforest Alliance
- Global Forest Watch
- Conservation International
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
These organizations adopt diverse strategies and collaborate with local communities, governments, and businesses to formulate effective solutions.
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World Wildlife Fund (WWF): The WWF prioritizes the protection of critical forests and biodiversity through conservation programs. They focus on sustainable forestry practices and engage in reforestation efforts that involve local communities. Their projects, like the Great Green Wall, aim to restore ecosystems and combat desertification in the Sahel region.
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The Nature Conservancy: The Nature Conservancy works on land-use planning and sustainable agricultural practices. They partner with local farmers to implement agroforestry, which combines agriculture and tree planting. Their initiatives also include creating protected areas that help maintain forests while benefiting local economies.
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United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): UNEP promotes environmental governance and sustainable forest management. They implement programs like the UN-REDD Programme, which helps countries reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation by providing financial and technical support.
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African Forest Forum (AFF): The AFF focuses on enhancing knowledge sharing and capacity building among African countries. They provide information, facilitate dialogue, and support policy development for sustainable forest management and conservation efforts.
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Rainforest Alliance: The Rainforest Alliance collaborates with businesses and communities to promote sustainable farming practices. They certify products that meet ecological and social standards, thus encouraging consumers to choose responsibly sourced goods that support forests.
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Global Forest Watch: Global Forest Watch utilizes satellite technology to monitor forest cover and deforestation rates in real-time. They provide data and tools to help governments, NGOs, and communities access information effective for forest management and advocacy.
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Conservation International: Conservation International focuses on protecting nature for the benefit of humanity. They work to establish protected areas and restore degraded lands while promoting sustainable livelihoods for communities that depend on forest resources.
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Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO): The FAO supports countries in developing national forest programs that promote sustainable forest management practices and combat deforestation. They conduct assessments and provide guidelines to enhance forest resilience and productivity.