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Biodiversity loss in Liberia : March Free Report |
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by Salome Nuah | 29-03-2023 14:51
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Biodiversity in Liberia represents not only economic importance but also ecological and cultural. With a vast majority of the population dwelling in rural areas, they rely on biological resources as a source of livelihood. Biodiversity is essential for the natural functioning of ecosystems, like nutrient recycling and soil renewal. Status of Biodiversity in Liberia Biodiversity involves both terrestrial and aquatic. Decades ago, the lands in Liberia were forested. However, population increase and housing development have dramatically shrunk the original forest size to about 50%. A significant portion-42%- of the Upper Guinea Forest of West Africa is in Liberia. Liberia is home to endemic plants, species, and ecosystems on the brink of extinction due to human activities. This report will examine the cause of biodiversity loss in Liberia. Threats to biodiversity loss
Because rural residents' source of income is unstable, they hugely depend on natural resources and agriculture. With the popularity of charcoal production in Liberia for energy and cooking, this seems to be a lucrative business for people in rural areas. Trees in dense forests are deforested in large quantities to meet the growing demand. Wild plants and animals are often a source of protein for poor people. They rely on bushmeat as a source of animal protein and for daily consumption. Overreliance on forests and natural resources leads to unsustainable consumption and environmental degradation.
Illegal wildlife poaching and hunting are widespread in Liberia- a source of livelihood for rural communities. Despite the government's ban on bush meat hunting in nature reserves and parks, many hunters often violate the laws. Pangolin, an endangered species, is heavily hunted and killed in Liberia. Also, the keratin in pangolin scales is essential for its medicinal properties.  |
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Youth
Salome Nuah
Previous : [March Theme Report] Wildlife ...
2 Comments
Hello Salome! This is your mentor James!
First of all, so sorry for the late comment!
I see that the main causes for the loss of biodiversity in Liberia are due to deforestation and indiscriminate hunting of wild animals. However, to protect the biodiversity of a certain region, it is crucial to provide an alternative profitable source that the local residents may rely on. Maybe promoting eco-tourism in Liberia could be an option!
Thanks for the meaningful report! Looking forward to reading your next one!
Posted 04-05-2023 20:58
Hello Salome! This is your mentor Yewon.
Thank you for sharing about biodiversity loss in Liberia! You have shown interesting statistics that explain the current status of biodiversity in Liberia. Also, your point of view that poverty can be the cause of biodiversity loss seemed interesting, and quite reasonable!
Thank you again for your logical, informative report!!
Posted 30-03-2023 14:40