Estimation of emissions from tropical deforestation scenarios in Anambra state using the global Forest Watch remote sensing tool

Abstract

The overall objective of this paper is to assess the impacts of deforestation scenarios in Anambra state, Southeastern Nigeria with open- source remote sensing datasets of the Global Forest Watch Tool. Methodologically, tree cover gain-and-loss status of tree cover including  rates of deforestation related carbon emissions were quantified in Anambra State using the open-source remote sensing platform of  Global Forest Watcher (GFW). From the results of the analysis, ten (10%) of Anambra State gained 6.76kha of trees spanning a total of  47.0 kha of land during 2000 - 2010. This value equals 1.5% of Anambra’ total landmass. In contrast, Anambra state lost a total of 1.52 kha  of tree cover to deforestation activities. The results also show that, Awka South LGA (19,740 tons of CO₂eq) emits the highest amount of  carbon emissions resulting from tropical deforestation in Anambra State. Next to Awka South LGA, is Nnewi South records a total of  13,400 tons of CO₂eq, Onitsha North (12,100 tons of CO₂eq), Nnewi North (6,440 tons of CO₂eq); Awka North (1,890 tons of CO₂eq) and  Onitsha South (1480 tons of CO₂eq) emits the least amount of carbon emission from deforestation in Anambra state. Conclusion, the  Global Forest Watcher is a viable open-source remote sensing tool for tropical deforestation’s emission mapping in Anambra state. It is  therefore recommended in this paper that, there is need for government at both the state and local government levels to intensify tree  planting interventions towards mitigating the impacts from carbon emissions resulting from deforestation activities.