Forest Ecosystems and Climate Change in Ethiopia: Challenges and Adaptive Solutions: Review Article
Abstract
The review article, "Forest Ecosystems and Climate Change in Ethiopia: Challenges and Adaptive Solutions," explores the critical interrelations between Ethiopia's forest ecosystems and climate change. The primary objective is to assess the effectiveness of adaptive strategies, particularly community-based forest management and agroforestry, within climate resilience. A systematic literature review was conducted, encompassing 69 studies published since 2020, to evaluate the multifaceted impacts of climate change on forest health, deforestation drivers, and existing policy frameworks. The results reveal that Ethiopia's forests face severe threats from climate change, including shifts in biodiversity and an increase in deforestation driven by agricultural expansion and illegal logging. Despite initiatives like the Climate Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) strategy and the Green Legacy Initiative, challenges persist, including inadequate policy enforcement, land tenure issues, and socio-economic pressures that hinder effective conservation. The conclusion emphasises the necessity for integrated, community-focused strategies and enhanced policy coherence to address these barriers. The findings suggest that strengthening local governance, securing land rights, and exploring alternative livelihood options are essential for sustainable forest management in Ethiopia. Overall, this review provides insights that are vital for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to bolster forest resilience and contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts.
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