ZELA calls for technological transformation in for...

ZELA calls for technological transformation in forestry conservation

Audrey Galawu

The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association has called for innovation in forest conservation to strengthen the monitoring and enforcement mechanisms through technology to combat forestry crimes and other activities that threaten forest ecosystems.

ZELA said there is need to improve technologies in protected areas, including remote sensing for fire detection and digitalise forestry data for conservation purposes.

Commemorating this year’s theme International Day of Forests 2024, under the theme, “Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World,” ZELA said the theme resonates deeply with the contemporary movement towards fostering dynamism in environmental conservation.

The association stated that at a time when voices of innovation are increasingly being heard, particularly in the realm of sustainable natural resource management, this theme underscores the imperative for pioneering solutions to safeguard our forests.

“In an era marked by technological advancement, digital innovation has become indispensable in forestry practices. Utilising remote sensing technologies to generate satellite imagery enables us to monitor forest cover changes, identify patterns and trends in forest loss and employ drones for real-time forest monitoring and data collection.

“Innovations such as biodegradable sensors have revolutionised forest management by facilitating the monitoring of soil moisture and temperature, particularly in remote forest areas. These technological advancements are critical in enhancing forest monitoring systems and promoting reforestation efforts.

“Promoting the use of alternative sources of energy to mitigate deforestation and reduce demand for wood, Sustainable Land Use Planning: to strike a balance between forestry management and agriculture expansion, mining, and urbanisation which cause deforestation,” the association said.

ZELA also mentioned the importance of indigenous knowledge in preserving forestry and increasing awareness, adding that efforts must be amplified to facilitate women’s meaningful participation in forestry management.

“Indigenous knowledge integration into forestry management practices, increased awareness and education programs or campaigns. Forests stand as vital pillars for our existence, serving as crucial components of our planet’s ecosystem.

“Forests not only contribute to addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and sustainable development, but also provide indispensable ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, water regulation and habitat provision for diverse flora and fauna.

“Indigenous knowledge systems also emerge as invaluable innovations contributing to forest conservation. Local cultures have cultivated practices that ensure the sustainable management and preservation of forests. As we honour the importance of forests, it is imperative to continue tapping into indigenous knowledge systems to inform our forest conservation efforts.

“The adoption of Community Based Natural Resource Management in forestry should serve as a catalyst for the integration of gender-sensitive approaches to forestry conservation. Women play important roles in agro-ecology by ensuring family food security, using medicinal plants, producing handicrafts, and passing on forest knowledge to future generations, all of which revolve around forests.

“Thus, gender mainstreaming in forestry is imperative. By elevating the voices of women and other marginalised groups, we can foster more inclusive and effective approaches to forest management that acknowledge and harness the diverse contributions of all community members," ZELA further said.

Forests serve as vital sources of sustainable livelihoods for forest-dependent communities, particularly those grappling with the impacts of climate change.