Agroforestry Potential for Combating Forest and Environmental Degradation: Reflections on Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

Growing deforestation and environmental degradation in parts of Southeastern Nigeria have shifted attention to agricultural production systems that are environmentally sustainable, socially acceptable and economically appropriate. Agroforestry is one major sustainable farming system that has been the centre of theoretical and empirical attention, over the recent years. This paper examines the potential of agroforestry system to promote sustainable land use and ameliorate risks from deforestation, forest degradation and environmental damage. The paper is divided into sections. Section one is the introduction and background of the analysis. Section two reviews the various agroforestry systems and practices that hold potential for promoting sustainable land use and alleviating environmental risks. Section three expounds these potentials which cut across the social, economic, ecological, religious and cultural aspects of rural life. Section four highlights and discusses the imperatives for realizing agroforestry potential in the sustainable development of natural resources in rural Southeastern Nigeria. Section five contains the conclusion and policy agenda for action in order to enhance forest conservation and environmental sustainability.

Key Words: Agro forestry, Environmental damage, Sustainability, Conservation