Reconciling policy instruments with drivers of deforestation and forest degradation: cross-scale analysis of stakeholder perceptions in tropical countries
Issue Date
2-2023
Abstract
Cross-scale studies combining information on policy instruments and on drivers of deforestation and forest degradation are key to design and implement effective forest protection measures. We investigated the scale and country dependency of stakeholder perceptions about future threats to tropical forests (e.g. agriculture, logging, woodfuel) and preferred policy instruments (e.g. reforestation, protected areas, combat illegal logging), by interviewing 224 representatives of forest-related institutions. We conducted analysis of variance and principal component analysis for eighteen variables across three countries (Zambia, Ecuador and the Philippines) and four spatial levels (from international to local). We found that the overall alertness about commercial drivers and the confidence in policy instruments are significantly lower at subnational levels and also in Zambia. Stakeholder expectations about the most important drivers and the most effective policies in the coming decade follow regional narratives, suggesting that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions in international forest policy. However, we found an unexpected consensus across scales, indicating potential for collaboration between institutions operating at different geographical levels. Overall, agriculture remains the driver with the highest expected influence (43%), while a strong favoritism for reforestation and forest restoration (38%) suggests a paradigm shift from protected areas to a stronger focus on integrative approaches.
Source or Periodical Title
Scientific Reports
Volume
13
Issue
2180
Page
1-16
Document Type
Article
College
College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR)
Recommended Citation
Velasco, Ruben F.; Lippe, Melvin; Fischer, Richard; Torres, Bolier; Tamayo, Fabian; Kanungwe-Kalaba, Felix; Kaoma, Humphrey; Bugayong, Leonida; and Gunter, Sven, "Reconciling policy instruments with drivers of deforestation and forest degradation: cross-scale analysis of stakeholder perceptions in tropical countries" (2023). Journal Article. 5771.
https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/journal-articles/5771