Role of local communities in forest landscape restoration: Key lessons from the Billion Trees Afforestation Project, Pakistan

BACKGROUND:

Forests in Pakistan have depleted over the years due to anthropogenic disturbances such as illegal logging, urbanization, and agriculture. The Billion Trees Afforestation Project (BTAP) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa aims to conserve forests, improve livelihoods, and mitigate climate change by actively involving local communities. This study evaluates the effectiveness of BTAP, the critical role of farmer participation, and the factors influencing their engagement in the project.

GOALS AND METHODS:

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the Billion Trees Afforestation Project (BTAP) in Pakistan by examining the factors influencing rural household participation and its impacts on environmental changes, employment, and financial stability at the community level. The authors employ both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data from BTAP participants, nonparticipants, and various officials. The methods include focus group discussions, professional evaluations, household surveys, spatial data analysis, and econometric modeling to identify factors influencing participation and project effectiveness.

CONCLUSIONS AND TAKEAWAYS: 

The study concludes that factors such as age, income from forest resources, and good relationships with forest department staff positively influence farmer participation in the BTAP, while land disputes and dependence on livestock farming have negative impacts. The authors emphasize the need for policymakers to address these barriers and enhance the inclusion of disadvantaged groups to ensure equitable benefits and sustainable forest management.