Impact of Logging on the Environment in Congo Brazzaville

Abstract

Environmental problems represent a major global challenge that requires thinking about how to better exploit natural resources, in this case, forests. The role and importance of forests are no longer to be demonstrated because, apart from the fact that they are indispensable for economic development, they are a reservoir of biodiversity and have a vital importance for humanity, in particular in sequestration of greenhouse gas emitted by human activities. As a result, particular attention must be paid to the way in which they are exploited, while ensuring their sustainability. It would also be futile to envisage the preservation of the environment without mentioning the population factor and the endemic poverty of the African countries despite the endowments in natural resources. The purpose of this article is to assess the environmental impact of logging. Using quantitative and qualitative research methods through investigations on the ground, exploitation of documents related to logging, we have found out the key role played by forest sector in the Congolese society. In fact, wood is the main source of energy for more than 80% of the Congolese population. We have also noticed that the impact of logging on the environment seems to be negligible in Congo Brazzaville and in the Congo Basin in general. Empirical analyses have been conducted through the software Stata to see the veracity of theoretical analysis. Linear regression was made between forest area and CO2 emissions to see the significance of variables. According to our results, we have found out that at the threshold of 5%, the forest sector generates negative impacts on the environment; the reduction by 1% of the forest area, increases CO2 emissions by 141.4622%. Thus, logging has an impact on the environment. Even if the rate of deforestation remains low (0.07%) and current exploitation does not compromise the regeneration capacity of the Congolese forest, the years ahead will be decisive for both forest ecosystems and environment.