Examining Patterns and Impacts of Forest Resource Extraction and Forest Degradation in Tropical Dry Forests

Abstract

Forest degradation is attributed to the excessive use of forest resources and extraction, whether for subsistence or commercial purposes. With an increase in human population pressure on forests, forest degradation is becoming a concern for the conservation of biodiversity. The high human dependence on tropical dry forests underscores the need for a complete understanding of the interaction of humans and these forests to ensure their persistence and the wellbeing of the people who depend on these resources. This chapter examines forest resource use and degradation to provide a nuanced understanding of forest degradation and the impact of forest resource use.

Passive acoustic data yields insights into bird vocalization behavior associated with invasive shrub removal

“…The region contains predominantly tropical deciduous vegetation (Agarwala et al., 2016), which supports several threatened species such as the Bengal tiger ( Panthera tigris ) and sloth bear ( Melursus ursinus ) (Jhala et al., 2008; Thatte et al., 2018). The sites also support the livelihoods of legally established populations of Scheduled Caste and Tribe members who depend on forest resources for sustenance (Choksi, 2020; DeFries et al., 2022). These forests lie adjacent to farmlands and human habitations (see Figure S1).…”

“…These forests are crucial biodiversity reserves with high levels of endemism (Morales et al., 2015). In several parts of the world, they support local livelihoods (Choksi, 2020) making them susceptible to land use change and other human modifications. Therefore, tropical dry forests are an important biome to restore and monitor (Morales et al., 2015).…”

Socio-environmental success or failure of Extractive Reserves in the Amazon?

“…However, the exploitation of environmental resources has caused the degradation of natural forests worldwide, especially in tropical countries (Choksi, 2020). Nowhere in the world, concerns about the future of forests have called much attention than in Brazil.…”