Population and Deforestation Nexus in West Africa

This study is motivated by the increase in population placing increasing demand on West Africa forest ecosystems. From this background, this study explores the intricate nexus between population growth and deforestation in West Africa to empirical understand how demographic shifts affect forest sustainability. This study used the econometric modeling, IV regression, and panel data techniques to assess how population growth, rural demographics, and economic factors influence forest sustainability in West Africa. However, while there seems to be a negative link between population growth and forest sustainability, the findings from this study suggest that factors relating to forest exploitation do not account for changes in forest area and agricultural land beyond the influences of population growth. Thus, the population growth emerges as a significant factor leading to the depletion of forest areas and the expansion of agricultural land. While deforestation poses challenges to the global ecosystem, it also serves as a crucial livelihood for local communities. Given this conflict of interests, there is a pressing need to establish a clear and mutually beneficial collaboration among local communities, logging companies, and international forest sustainability standards.