Development of Flexible and Robust Forest Information Systems is Essential

"Development of flexible and robust forest information systems is essential," says expert

A Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social and Environmental Forestry, University of Ibadan, Dr. Daniel A. Akintunde-Alo has stated that the development of flexible and robust forest information systems is essential to support evidence based decision-making and sustainable forest management practices.

He made the statement while delivering the 4th Faculty Lecture of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources.

His lecture was entitled "From Bytes to Branches: Bridging the Gap between Forestry Information Systems and Sustainable Forestry."

Dr Akintunde proposed a holistic approach to bridge the gap between bytes of data and the sprawling branches of forest.

He submitted that by leveraging technological innovations such as the Geographic Information Systems, remote sensing, and data analytics alongside ecological and socio-economic considerations, we can enhance forest management strategies and promote biodiversity conservation.

He established that deforestation and other factors contribute to the rise in land surface temperature and impact the livelihoods of forest dependent communities negatively.

Dr. Akintunde-Alo stated that the integration of forestry information systems with sustainable forestry practices holds immense potential to transform how we manage and conserve our forest resources given that the forest cover in Nigeria is less than the recommended 25% land area.

He, therefore, recommended that forest scientists should collaborate with other professionals, policy makers, and local communities to conduct multidisciplinary research that will lead to having a more robust forestry information system.

He also recommended that all key stakeholders in forestry should intensify efforts to reduce deforestation while state governments should encourage the reintroduction of agroforestry practices to reduce free-range cattle herding.

The Faculty Lecturer called for capacity building programmes for forestry professionals on the effective use of information systems and technologies saying that empowering stakeholders with necessary skills will maximise the potential of forestry information systems and promote sustainable forest management.