Livelihoods Of Local Communities Research Articles

Application of social cognitive theory to determine shaping factors of environmental intention and behaviors of ecotourist in forest areas

BackgroundEcotourism as a responsible travel to natural areas is proposed as a strategy for forest conservation by enhancing the livelihoods of local communities. However, engaging in environmentally friendly behaviors during forest visit is a crucial factor in achieving this conservation. This study aimed to examine the determinants of intention and actual environmental behavior among ecotourists during their visits to forests.MethodsUtilizing social cognitive theory as the theoretical framework, the data from 409 visitors of recreational forest were analyzed. After confirming the validity and reliability of the data, structural equation modeling was employed for analysis.ResultsThe results indicated that the model could explain 59% of the behavioral intention and 27% of the actual environmentally friendly behaviors of ecotourists during their forest visits. Additionally, social influence and the behaviors of other ecotourists were identified as two significant determinants of individuals’ behavioral intention. Self-efficacy and behavioral intention also emerged as significant factors which shape the actual environmental behaviors of tourists, positively.DiscussionThe findings suggest that social expectations, learning from fellow tourists, and enhancing individuals’ abilities while addressing barriers to exhibiting environmentally friendly behaviors should be prioritized in promotional planning for ecotourism.

Evaluating Socio-Economic and Environmental (SEE) Impact of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) of Gemstones on Livelihood in the Ijero-Ekiti Community, Nigeria

Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) has experienced explosive growth in recent years due to the rising value of mineral prices and the increasing difficulty of earning a living from agriculture and other rural activities, in that regard the Gem Mining Industry (GMI) has come to be one of the major sources of income and employment for the country, especially the local people of Ijero LGA in Ekiti State. Artisanal and Small-Scale mining effects in the state were studied using structured questionnaires. This research draws on primary data collected from households and artisanal miners. The questionnaire was designed to answer the following questions about the socio-economic impacts of small-scale tourmaline mining on local community livelihoods in Ijero-Ekiti, furthermore, the research employs of a descriptive survey design, to understand the effects of mining in the study area. Results indicate that overdependence on mining and poor diversification of livelihood options has hindered the development of rural communities. The equitable distribution of employment opportunities and revenue from small-scale mining remains a challenge for sustainable local development.

Assessment of the Local Strategies Used in Abating Flash Floods for Improvement of Community Livelihoods in Nyamwamba and Bulembia Divisions, Kasese District, Uganda

Floods are intricate events that cause a range of human exposures, including loss of lives, property, and damage to infrastructure of the communities. Flash floods though often blamed on inappropriate development planning and climate variability, floods can be predicted to a reasonable extent, whose scale and nature are often less certain. The study aims at assessing the local strategies used in abating flash floods for improvement of community livelihoods. Specifically, the study explored the challenges the local communities faced during the implementation of the strategies, and also determined the relationship that emanated as a result of implementing the local strategies and community livelihoods. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data from 218 respondents and 08 Key Informants that held key responsibilities at the Municipal Council and the community. Information from the respondents and Key Informants were collected using questionnaires which was in form of interviews and face to face interviews respectively. The study shows that some local strategies have been implemented towards controlling flash floods such as, restoration of river banks (69.3%) planting bamboo trees along river banks (66%), use of gabions (65.6%), putting check dams (65.6%) and construction of manmade channels (95.9%) along the hillsides. Putting flood barriers (73%) that floods affect the community livelihoods in various aspects of daily life and the local economy in terms damage of crops (74.8%) risk of diseases (83 %) loss of livestock (60 %), displacement (93%); The challenges faced in implementation of the of local strategies in the study area include financial constraints (81.2%), technical and logistical issues (63%), poor infrastructural design (83.9%), and environmental challenges (66%). A Chi square test showed that the implemented local strategies were significantly related to the community livelihood at P=0.001. Implemented local flood strategies resulted to a positive relationship to the agricultural productivity and protected community property at P<0.05. Overall, effective flood management strategies are able to reduce risks and contribute to a better community health with fewer disruptions to community’s daily life at P<0.05. Local communities should adopt and implement the use of the mentioned local strategies like re-channeling of water pathways along the hill sides and use of gabions for flash floods mitigation since they cost effective. There should be a country-wide implementation of community-initiated mitigation measures for abating flash floods and related climate change disruptions aimed at building and promoting community resilience and livelihoods of people living in flood prone areas.

A Bibliometric Review of the Impacts of Logging in Forests in Semi-Arid Zones

Forest massifs in semi-arid zones play an essential role in maintaining ecological balances and the livelihood of local communities. However, unsustainable logging in these regions can have devastating ecological, and socio-economic consequences. This bibliometric review aims to synthesize the available evidence regarding the impacts of logging in semi-arid ecosystem. Analysis of publication trends reveals a significant increase in research from 2008, reflecting a growing awareness of the issues related to sustainable forest management. The United States, Canada, Australia and China the most prominent countries in this field. The bibliometric analysis of the highlights major concerns related to climate change, clear-cutting, interactions with demographic dynamics and biogeochemical cycles. However, gaps remain, including a lack of data specific to semi-arid areas, limited understanding of the complex interactions between different dimensions of impacts, and insufficient integration of local perspectives and traditional knowledge. This review highlights the need to continue interdisciplinary and collaborative research efforts to ensure sustainable management of semi-arid forests in the face of current and future environmental challenges.

Legal Examination of Benefit Sharing and Livelihood Improvement in Protected Area Managements: The Case of the Bakossi National Park

This study examines the interplay between benefit sharing and livelihood improvement within the Bakossi National Park (BNP) within the legal perspective. Traditionally, conservation efforts often placed local communities at odds with protected areas. However, through a doctrinal methodology, this research argues that a well-designed benefit-sharing program can foster collaboration and improve the lives of local communities. By analyzing the BNP as a case study, the research explores how initiatives like revenue sharing from timber exploitation, tourism, employment opportunities within the park, and community driven projects can generate income and empower local communities. The effectiveness of these programs hinges on understanding the specific needs of the communities and ensuring their equitable participation in decision-making processes. Ultimately, this study contends that successful benefit sharing in PAs management, like the BNP, can create a win-win situation, where biodiversity is preserved, and local communities thrive. The work concludes with robust recommendations that if complied with and enforced, it would go a long way to improve on the livelihood of local communities in the Bakossi National Park of Cameroon.

Examining Woody Plant Diversity Across Indigenous Agroforestry Practices in the Kellem Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia

Growing woody plants on farmland not only promotes biodiversity conservation but also supports the livelihood of local communities by offering essential ecosystem services. The present study aimed to assess the woody species diversity within indigenous agroforestry practices in Kellem Wollega Zone, western Ethiopia. From Kellem Wollega, three districts: Dale Sadi, Gawo Qebe,and Sadi Canqa were purposively selected. A total of 135 plots were surveyed, with 45 plots per district across various land use classes, documenting species diversity, evenness, richness, frequency, and important value index. Fifty six (56) woody species from 29 families were counted. Fabaceae family was identified as the most dominant, comprising 7 species (12.5%), followed by Moraceae and Euphorbiaceae families, each with 4 species (7.17%). About 71.43% of species identified species were categorized as trees, while 28.57% were classified as shrubs. This finding confirmed that the indigenous home garden agroforestry exhibited the greatest diversity of woody species, while woodlots exhibited the lowest diversity. Furthermore, the results indicate significant variations in species diversity across different land use categories (p<0.001). These results underscore the contribution of indigenous agroforestry practices in enhancing biodiversity and supporting a number of woody species within their ecosystem.

Wild ungulates employ spatio-temporal niche partitioning to coexist with livestock in resource-limited Trans-Himalayan rangelands, India

Understanding interactions between wild ungulates and livestock is critical for the conservation and management of rangelands. Sympatric animals use a diversity of strategies such as differential use of space or time to avoid interspecific interactions, especially competition and conflict. This study investigated the seasonal (summer and winter) spatial and temporal interaction of three wild ungulates; Tibetan argali, kiang, and blue sheep with livestock (sheep and goat) using camera trap data collected between 2020 and 2022 in different seasons (14,340 camera trap days and 234 locations). Blue sheep and livestock show the highest level of temporal overlap in summer and winter as both are diurnal irrespective of the season. The highest spatial overlap is observed between kiang and livestock in summer and winter. In the summer, kiang shows multiple activity peaks throughout the day as well as night i.e. cathemeral activity, possibly a strategy to avoid competition with livestock by using the same space actively and repetitively but for shorter periods. This allows them to access forage and water as needed. A significant avoidance of livestock by argali in terms of space use was observed. Based on our analysis, we argue that avoidance behavior by argali is a survival strategy in response to anthropogenic pressure and hunting in the past. The spatio-temporal coordination at a finer scale facilitates coexistence in our study area, which allows ungulates and livestock to exploit resources more effectively in the study area. The findings of this multi-scale spatio-temporal analysis provide insights into habitat preferences of wild ungulates and livestock and species-specific behaviour to avoid competition. These insights are critical to develop robust strategies and policies to conserve biodiversity while also supporting the livelihood of local communities in a multi-use landscape.

Evaluating the Sustainability of Incentive-based Conservation: A Case Study of the Taungya System in the Mount Elgon Conservation Area, Uganda

This study evaluates the sustainability of the Taungya system, an incentive-based conservation approach implemented in the Mount Elgon Conservation Area, Uganda. The system integrates reforestation with agricultural practices, aiming to balance biodiversity conservation and local community livelihoods. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data from structured surveys of 240 program participants were analyzed using SPSS, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative insights from key informant interviews. The findings show a 68% increase in vegetation cover, demonstrating the system’s positive environmental impact. However, socio-economic benefits were uneven, with 86% of participants both consuming and selling crops, yet 93% reported that the benefits were insufficient to sustain them year-round. Key challenges included insecure land tenure, limited land size, and restrictions on agricultural practices like pruning and spraying. Despite these obstacles, the Taungya system fostered reforestation and community livelihoods, though unresolved land disputes and wildlife interactions contributed to negative perceptions of conservation efforts. These findings highlight important considerations for improving incentive-based conservation models, including the need for policy reforms that secure land tenure, expand land allocations, and support sustainable agricultural practices. The broader implications suggest that similar models in tropical regions can benefit from incorporating local needs into conservation goals to ensure long-term success.

Field and DNA-barcode based surveys reveal evidence of rare endemic fishes in the Rufiji River Basin

Endemic fish species have long supported the livelihoods of local communities in the Rufiji River Basin (RRB). However, destructive fishing practices have led to a concerning decline in endemic fish stocks. To assess these changes, this study employed key informant interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and fishery surveys to assess the historical and contemporary distribution of endemic fishes within the RRB. DNA barcoding was also used to verify species identities. Out of 37 reported fish species, 33 species (54.55% endemic and 45.45% exotic to RRB) were confirmed through DNA barcoding and morphological characteristics. About 5 species including, Heterobranchus longifilis, Citharinus congicus, Labeo congoro, Mormyrus longirostris, and Labeobarbus leleupanus were rarely found in the field, despite being classified as Least Concern by IUCN. Additionally, five species that were reported to be present in the RRB by experienced fishers were not captured during sampling. This highlights the need for validation of the existence of such species through eDNA metabarcoding. Moreover, due to the rarity of some species in the area, their IUCN assessment should be revisited.

Implementation of Circular Economy in a Developing Economy’s Mining Industry Using Institutional Theory: The Case of Namibia

Despite the global focus on sustainability, transitioning from linear to circular production systems is slow in the mining sector of most developing economies like Namibia. However, mining plays a crucial role in supporting the livelihoods of local communities. Furthermore, existing literature indicates that the potential for regenerative production systems using the remanufacture and recycle approach remains low and limited within the mining and developing economies. Institutional theory can help reveal the reasons for the slow take-up of the regenerative circular economy models in mining. This study uses a unique dataset of 40 semi-structured interviews with key players in the mining sector of Namibia to understand the current phase of circular economy adoption and the role played by institutional pressures in the process of institutional isomorphism, when companies would display a similar level of practices within a shared institutional environment. The findings reveal: (1) 72.5% of participants believe that Namibian mines are adoption-decision phase—a beginning stage of circular economy adoption; (2) companies are reliant on heavy government participation through policy/legislation and tax incentives is recommended; (3) the ranked order—coercive, normative, and mimetic pressures—describes their significance among key actors, for the successful adoption; and (4) proactive implementation and a mindset shift towards circularity is needed to meet emerging expectations on social and environmental concerns in mining.

Non-carbon benefits of REDD+ implementation and sustainable emission reductions – a review

ABSTRACT REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation) is a potentially powerful policy instrument for climate change, considering the continued loss of tropical forests. While emissions reductions are the primary aim, the Warsaw Framework for REDD+ recognizes the significance of non-carbon benefits to countries in the Global South. We here attempt to provide a balanced assessment of the achievements over the first decade of this policy instrument, paying special attention to whether non-carbon benefits to tropical countries are materialising. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses principles, 136 studies were identified and screened for evidence. We observe that, while forest governance structures have been strengthened, delivery of environmental and socio-economic non-carbon benefits to forest communities appears to be unsystematic, partly due to the absence of formally agreed guidance on how they could be provided. As REDD+ programmes often impinge directly on the livelihoods of local communities, non-timber forest products are sometimes promoted as alternatives to forestry commodities, even if they provide scant compensation. Except for Ghana’s cocoa program, commodity-driven value chains tend to be neglected. As more funds are expected to finance REDD+ programmes, there could be opportunities for innovation in the delivery of non-carbon benefits.

Optimalisasi Model Paludikultur Sebagai Mata Pencaharian Untuk Meningkatkan Kesejahteraan Petani di Lahan Gambut Kabupaten Oki Sumatera Selatan

Peatland restoration cannot be separated from balancing ecological functions and the needs of community life. Empowering farmers is the initial capital for a peat restoration program with a 3R strategy (rewetting, revegetation, revitalization) that can be carried out appropriately. This balancing concept is useful for environmental sustainability and also the livelihoods of local peat communities. The aim of this research is to analyze the optimization of the paludiculture model as a livelihood to improve the welfare of farmers in the peatlands of South Sumatra. This research uses a survey method conducted in Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) Regency, one of the four priority districts for peat restoration in South Sumatra Province. Data analysis uses an optimization model, namely maximum income and profit, optimal land use and labor, analyzed using a Linear Programming model with land, capital and labor constraints. The results of the research show that the balance of peatland ecosystem functions must be harmonized with maintaining sources of livelihood that can be carried out by generations of farming communities, namely the need to optimize community income by implementing the paludiculture model which provides optimal benefits obtained from the third scenario, agrosilvofishery, agrisilviculture and agroforestry, which is from the Scenario The third has an optimal profit in the agroforestry scenario of IDR. 71,629,870/year.

Evaluation of ecosystem services vis-à-vis perceptions and attitudes of local communities towards Wetland conservation in Kashmir Himalaya

Valuation of ecosystem services along with the perceptions and attitudes of local communities is crucial for sustainable management of wetlands. This study assesses changes in wetland area and bathymetry, and provides insights into local community's perceptions of ecosystem services, and attitudes towards wetland conservation in Kashmir Himalaya, India. High-resolution satellite data was used to assess land use land cover (LULC) changes within the wetland. The bathymetry changes were assessed by performing depth measurements before and after dredging in 2019 and 2022, respectively. Perceptions of ecosystem services and attitudes of residents towards wetland management were examined through surveys in 182 households from the target population of 334 families. The findings reveal that Khushalsar wetland provides important provisioning (food, fodder, thatching mats, fish, vegetables), regulating (flood control, carbon sequestration, water quality improvement), supporting (habitat, biomass and oxygen production, water and nutrient cycling), and cultural services (aesthetic, education, spiritual). The economic benefits from provisioning services range from 240 USD/yr for minor vegetables to 1201–1802 USD/0.05 ha/yr for Nelumbo nucifera. The analysis of LULC changes indicates a ∼16.5% reduction in wetland area from 1980 to 2017, with a further ∼10% decrease from 2017 to 2021, resulting in an overall loss of ∼25% (27.1 ha) in wetland area from 1980 to 2021. Bathymetric assessments reveal an increase in maximum depth from 427 cm in 2019 to 547 cm in 2022 following dredging activities. Socioeconomic analysis showed the significance of Khushalsar wetland as an important source of livelihood for local communities. Survey results indicate that all the respondents have positive attitudes towards the protection and management of the Khushalsar wetland. The study demonstrates that human conservation activities have significantly contributed to positive changes in the wetland such as increase in depth and flood storage capacity. The study concludes that government protection along with active participation of local communities is indispensable for sustainable management of wetlands.

Changes in the users of the social‐ecological system around a reciprocal human‐dolphin relationship

Abstract In contrast to many contemporary negative human‐nature relationships, Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities have stewarded nature through cultural practices that include reciprocal contributions for both humans and nature. A rare example is the century‐old artisanal fishery in which net‐casting fishers and wild dolphins benefit by working together, but little is known about the persistence of the social‐ecological system formed around this cultural practice. Here, we frame the human‐dolphin cooperative fishery in southern Brazil as a social‐ecological system based on secondary data from the scientific and grey literature. To investigate the dynamics of this system, we survey the local and traditional ecological knowledge and examine potential changes in its main component—the artisanal fishers—over time and space. Over 16 years, we conducted four interview campaigns with 188 fishers in fishing sites that are more open (accessible) or closed (restricted) to external influence. We investigated their experience, engagement and economic dependence on dolphin‐assisted fishing, as well as the learning processes and transmission of the traditional knowledge required to cooperate with dolphins. Our qualitative data suggest that fishers using accessible and restricted fishing sites have equivalent fishing experience, but those in more restrictive sites tend to be more economically dependent on dolphins, relying on them for fishing year‐round. The traditional knowledge on how to cooperate with dolphins is mostly acquired via social learning, with a tendency for vertical learning to be frequent among fishers using sites more restrictive for outsiders. Experience, economic dependence and reliance on vertical learning seem to decrease recently, especially in the accessible site. Our quantitative analyses, however, suggest that some of these fluctuations were not significant. Our study outlines the key components of this social‐ecological system and identifies changes in the attributes of a main component, the users. These changes, when coupled with changes in other components such as governance and resource units (fish and dolphins), can have implications for the persistence of this cultural practice and the livelihoods of Local Communities. We suggest that continuous monitoring of this system can help to safeguard the reciprocal contributions of this human‐nature relationship in years to come. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

The Impact of Government Regulations on Forest Fires on the Decline in Livelihoods of Residents in Pulang Pisau

Forest fires in Indonesia, especially in peatlands such as Pulang Pisau, Central Kalimantan, are a serious problem that impacts the environment and the livelihoods of local communities that depend on agriculture and timber mining. The government has issued strict regulations based on Law Number 32 of 2009, Law Number 41 of 1999, and Government Regulation Number 10 of 2010 to prohibit forest burning to protect the environment. However, the implementation of these regulations often does not take into account local conditions, leading to a decline in livelihoods, poverty, and population migration. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method to analyze the impact of government regulations on forest fires and livelihood decline in Pulang Pisau. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and document analysis. The results of the study show that the regulation limits the traditional practices of communities in managing land, causing a decrease in income and increasing poverty. Community adaptation to these regulations includes diversification of income sources, training, use of technology, and increased community cooperation. The study recommends increased support through proper training, access to environmentally friendly agricultural technologies, and better coordination between central and local governments. A holistic approach is needed to balance environmental protection and the economic well-being of the community. Effective regulatory implementation and ongoing support are expected to reduce forest fires without sacrificing the livelihoods of local communities.

Bridging Local Wisdom and Modernity: Swamp Buffalo Cultivation in Tampakang Village as a Model of Nature Conservation and Sustainable Community Welfare

This journal explores how swamp buffalo cultivation in Tampakang Village, South Kalimantan, is a model for integrating local wisdom and modernity in achieving sustainable development. Through a qualitative descriptive analysis approach, this study reveals the important role of swamp buffalo in maintaining the balance of wetland ecosystems and as a source of livelihood for local communities. By utilizing field observation methods, in-depth interviews, and literature studies, it was found that local wisdom in swamp buffalo cultivation not only preserves local traditions and culture but also provides economic benefits through ecotourism. In addition, challenges in providing feed during the rainy season and limited knowledge of farmers were identified as obstacles that needed to be overcome. However, the opportunity to develop swamp buffalo tourism can improve community welfare through job creation and income increase. This research provides practical recommendations to conserve swamp buffalo cultivation and maximize its potential as a source of sustainable community welfare.

Indigenous Ecological Knowledge and Perceptions of Climate Change on the Environment and Livelihood of Local Communities in Kgalagadi District of Botswana

Extreme climate change causes an immeasurable threat to the livelihood security and prosperity of rural communities, including the natural environment and resources managed by the local people in the Kgalagadi District of Botswana. The study aims to understand the indigenous ecological knowledge of local communities about climate change, its impacts on the environment, and their livelihoods across five villages in the Kgalagadi District of Botswana. The present study used a semi-structured questionnaire survey at the household level who were randomly selected using the village register book. The results indicated that all the respondents in Kang village and some from Lehututu and Tshane villages perceived that the causes of climate change were unknown. However, some respondents across the other four villages believed that climate change is caused by various factors including wildfires, pollution from industries, impacts from livestock, and vehicles, as well as a curse from God. Indigenous knowledge must be well incorporated with scientific methods and up-to-date climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies to envisage more concrete results. This helps to integrate the insight of local people into policies and strategies to make an effort for solutions that are crucial for sustainable development. We suggest that all stakeholders should harmonise the use of indigenous knowledge with climate change strategies, to make the best use of its contribution to the successful execution of climate change policies.

UNDERWATER CULTURAL HERITAGE AS A TOOL FOR IMPLEMENTING THE GLOBAL GOALS OF UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The article analyses new approaches to respond to the challenges set out in the United Nations 2030 Agenda. The subject is relevant because seventeen Sustainable Development Goals are defined, which are a universal call to action for humanity to reduce poverty, overcome hunger, protect the planet and ensure that by 2030 all people live in peace and prosperity. According to the UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage (2001),sites that fall under its protection include archaeological remains of ships, historic structures, submerged landscapes, sunken cities, and ancient fishing structures. Such sites must have been underwater for at least 100 years. They must also be partially or completely, periodically or permanently submerged in the waters of the ocean, sea, lake or river. On the basis of analyzing the studies of foreign and domestic scientists, the author found out that with responsible use and management of underwater cultural heritage sites, it is possible to achieve effective methods of conservation and sustainable economic development of humanity. This is possible by increasing and accumulating knowledge of the oceans. In particular, stone tidal weirs, which are underwater cultural heritage sites, were investigated. Using these ancient structures for fishing today could be an effective solution to the problem of hunger. The study found that protecting underwater cultural heritage sites and the areas in which they are located ensures the conservation of marine resources. And this is one of the Sustainable Development Goals. The relationship between the protection of heritage sites and the prosperity of marine ecosystems helps to create livelihoods for local communities through dive tourism. Organizing underwater tourism at historic shipwreck sites can create new jobs. And this will lead to an increase in the welfare of the population. Quality management and responsible use of underwater heritage sites will lead to increased tourist flows. And this will contribute to the sustainable development of cities and communities. Thus, underwater cultural heritage is characterized by the integrity of cultural, natural, archaeological, tangible and intangible heritage. Such knowledge can be applied to solve the problems of our time. This makes heritage an important tool for achieving certain objectives of the Global Programme for Sustainable Development as defined in the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

Indigenous Ecological Knowledge and Perceptions of Climate Change on the Environment and Livelihood of Local Communities in Kgalagadi District of Botswana

Extreme climate change causes an immeasurable threat to the livelihood security and prosperity of rural communities, including the natural environment and resources managed by the local people in the Kgalagadi District of Botswana. The study aims to understand the indigenous ecological knowledge of local communities about climate change, its impacts on the environment, and their livelihoods across five villages in the Kgalagadi District of Botswana. The present study used a semi-structured questionnaire survey at the household level who were randomly selected using the village register book. The results indicated that all the respondents in Kang village and some from Lehututu and Tshane villages perceived that the causes of climate change were unknown. However, some respondents across the other four villages believed that climate change is caused by various factors including wildfires, pollution from industries, impacts from livestock, and vehicles, as well as a curse from God. Indigenous knowledge must be well incorporated with scientific methods and up-to-date climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies to envisage more concrete results. This helps to integrate the insight of local people into policies and strategies to make an effort for solutions that are crucial for sustainable development. We suggest that all stakeholders should harmonise the use of indigenous knowledge with climate change strategies, to make the best use of its contribution to the successful execution of climate change policies.

Identification of Major Threats of Climate Change, Hazards, and Anthropogenic Activities on Biodiversity Conservation in the Buxa Tiger Reserve, India.

The Himalayan forests are facing a range of threats, which are making conservation efforts challenging. Using a mixed-method approach, this study investigated the threats to biodiversity conservation in Buxa Tiger Reserve (BTR), a fragile ecosystem in the Eastern Himalayan foothills. The study found that between 1990 and 2021, BTR experienced rising summer temperatures and decreasing annual precipitation, contributing to forest dryness, water scarcity, and forest fires. Natural disasters such as floods, flash floods, earthquakes, and landslides also caused significant damage to wildlife habitats. Changes in land use and land cover, including encroachment, infrastructure development, fuelwood collection, and grazing practices, were also identified as significant drivers of ecosystem alteration. Besides, hunting and poaching also emerged as threats to wildlife populations in the reserve. By employing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), the study determined that land use change, infrastructure development, climate change, livestock grazing, and fuelwood collection pose significant threats to flora conservation outcomes in BTR, while infrastructure development, climate change, livestock grazing, and forest fires are the primary threats to wildlife conservation outcomes in the reserve. The study recommends the regulation of land use practices, promotion of sustainable livelihoods for local communities, effective conservation strategies, and public awareness and education programs to promote the value of biodiversity conservation.