The Contribution of Non-Wood Forest Products to Rural Livelihoods in Tunisia: The Case of Aleppo Pine

Ibtissem Taghouti,Bouali Guesmi,Emna Ouertani

doi:10.3390/f12121793

Abstract

Research Highlights: Recently, there has been a growing interest in the contribution of Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFPs) to livelihoods and food security among local populations in Tunisia. NWFPs have gained special attention given the relevance of this forest heritage to alleviate poverty and improve household economies. Background and Objectives: This study focuses on determining the contribution of Aleppo pine production to local household livelihood and food security in Tunisia (Siliana province). The relevance of this region as a leading Tunisian Aleppo pine producer makes the analysis especially interesting. Materials and Methods: Data were obtained using structured surveys distributed among rural household heads during the collection season. A logistic regression as well as food security indicators were calculated to evaluate the contribution of NWFPs to household livelihood. Results: Empirical findings support evidence that there is a significant difference between the alternative sources of revenues. The collection of Aleppo pine was significantly affected by gender, attending extension days and agricultural training program, distance to market, household size and livestock activity. Conclusions: Aleppo pine plays an important role in supporting rural livelihoods and provides an important safety net for the local population throughout the year.

Highlights

Published: 17 December 2021Tunisian forests provide a wide range of products and services of which the most important are Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFPs)
People who participate in training programs tend to improve their technical and economic performance to better valorize the NWFPs
Households with animal husbandry are expected to reduce the probability to collect Aleppo pine seeds (APS). This finding confirms that assets owned by households are negatively associated with engaging in NWFPs business activities, which is consistent with the notion that poor households tend to be reliant more on natural resources than the rich [55]

Summary

Introduction

Published: 17 December 2021Tunisian forests provide a wide range of products and services of which the most important are Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFPs). Weiss et al (2020) advocated that NWFPs may contribute to human nutrition, renewable materials, and cultural and experiential services, as well as to create income opportunities and to provide jobs for men and women in rural areas [2]. NWFPs are characterized by their significant market value and contribution to local livelihoods. They provide a wide range of benefits upon which rural populations supplement their income and meet a large number of their basic needs of subsistence and trade [3]. The collection of NWFPs offers an important subsistence support to local populations living within forest areas through representing the lion’s share of their household income and food security, as well as providing multiple social and cultural values [4]. While the contribution of environmental products and services to rural livelihoods is widely recognized, their economic significance within forest communities

Methods

Results

Conclusion