CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background to the Study

Biological diversity, the variability among living creatures from all sources including, terrestrial, aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are a part; this includes diversity within species, between species and of the ecosystems. The most conspicuous feature of the Earth is the continuation of life and most striking essence of life is diversity. Biodiversity is one of the chief livelihood options; it provides at least 13 types of ecosystem services. Biodiversity provides commodities and services such as food, fiber, medicine, air, water purification, climate regulation, erosion control and nutrient cycling. Biodiversity also plays an imperative role in economic sectors that drive development, including agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and tourism. More than 3 billion individuals depend on marine and coastal biodiversity and 1.6 billion individuals depend on forest areas and NTFP’S for their living. Biodiversity is strongly affected by factors such as human health, security, and culture. Sustainable development is improving the quality of human life while living within the carrying capacity of sustaining ecosystems. Sustainable development and Biodiversity conservation are two interrelated branches concentrating on community development, monetary growth and environmental security on one side, and biological community protection on the other. But still, overexploitation and environmental degradation can be seen rising at a disturbing rate (Rodrigues et al., 2024).

Almost 350 million of the world’s poorest people depend almost entirely for their subsistence and survival on forests. A further 1 billion poor people – about 20% of the world’s population – depend on remnant woodlands, on homestead tree gardens, and on agro-forestry systems for their essential fuel wood, food and fodder needs. Indigenous population groups and different communities living in forests ecosystems are estimated to be around approximately 60 million individuals worldwide with 1.6 billion rural communities that are reliant upon natural ecosystems to some degree. In developing nations, around 1.2 billion individuals depend on agroforestry. The 80 percent of the world forests are possessed by public; however, proprietorship and administration of forest ecosystems by local community groups, people, and privately owned businesses are on the rise, 30 percent of forests are utilized for the creation of wood and NTFP products.  Forests provide shelter to 300 million individuals around the globe. The annual value of wood removed from forests is estimated to be more than $100 billion (Makdissi et al., 2024).

Biodiversity conservation and sustainable development are crucial global initiatives, with a focus on the United States, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom revealing significant findings in recent empirical literature. Studies highlight the integral role of biodiversity in ecosystem services and human well-being, emphasizing the necessity for conservation efforts in these countries. Empirical evidence (Yadav & Peer, 2024) shows a positive correlation between biodiversity preservation and sustainable development indicators, shedding light on the economic, social, and environmental benefits of conservation practices. Research indicates the implementation of inclusive policies and strategies to promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable development goals, fostering a harmonious relationship between nature and society. Furthermore, studies emphasize the need for cross-sectoral collaboration and community engagement to achieve long-term conservation and sustainable development objectives in this nation (Tinsley et al., 2024).

At an aspirational level, sustainable development captures the hope of restoring balance to a warming world undergoing rapid change, the promise of providing humans with livelihoods in the present and in the future while protecting the richness of biological life embedded in the planet’s intricately woven natural ecosystems. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 in less developed countries like China and Asia are a ‘set of universal goals that meet the urgent environmental, political and economic challenges facing our world’ (UNDP, 2020a). The SDGs replace the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which started a global effort in 2000 to eradicate extreme poverty. The SDGs entail 17 specific goals and 169 targets, however, do not specify how trade-offs between reaching different objectives related to economic development or environmental protection and nature conservation should be resolved (UNDP, 2020b). This vacuum leaves relevant actors a lot of room to define what sustainable development means or should mean, and how the economic and nature conservation components should be weighted in innumerable local situations where nature conservation objectives may stand in the way of lucrative short-term economic opportunities. Such trade-off decisions are intractably political. How they are resolved and to whose benefit is fundamentally a function of prevailing power structures often dominated by vested special economic interests and elite capture, and the imperative of global supply chains of an international capitalist economic order. The sustainable development discourse largely glosses over these critical factors.

In some Africa Countries like Nigeria, Ghana and Chad who are rich in biodiversity and endowed with wild fauna resources and abundant animal species. There are 22,000 vertebrate and invertebrate species, about 20,000 insects, 1,000 birds, 1,000 fishes, 247 mammals and 123 reptile species (Nigeria Fourth National Biodiversity Report, 2010). About 2,000 microbial species have also been identified. The diversity of Nigeria’s wild animals can be attributed to the country’s tropical location, size, and ecosystems (FAO, 2021). These ecosystems range from the mangrove around the coastal ridges to the rainforests in the south, through the moist savannas in the central part of the country and dry arid savannas in the far north. Freshwater, brackish, and marine ecosystems are also occurring, while montane vegetation features have been found at high altitudes in the eastern borderlands (Falade and Adebanjo, 2020).

Biodiversity is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and supporting human life. It encompasses the variety of life forms on Earth, including ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity. In Bamenda 1 Sub-Division, located in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, biodiversity plays a significant role in local livelihoods, cultural identity, and environmental sustainability. However, rapid urbanization, agricultural practices, and climate change are threatening this rich biodiversity. This study aims to explore the interplay between biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in Bamenda 1 Sub-Division, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches that benefit both the environment and local communities.

1.2 Study Area (Bamenda 1 Sub-Division)

Bamenda I is located between Latitude: 5.9592° N and Longitude: 10.1576°. Bamenda 1 Sub-Division is a vibrant area known for its unique ecological attributes and diverse cultural heritage. The region is characterized by its lush landscapes and a range of habitats that support various flora and fauna. Understanding the physical milieu of Bamenda 1 is essential for comprehending the challenges and opportunities associated with biodiversity conservation and sustainable development (Nkwain et al., 2023).

Figure 1.1 Location of the study area

Source: Geo. database of Cameroon; 2015 NIS Yaounde

1.2.1 Physical milieu

1.2.1.1 Climate Bamenda 1 Sub-Division

Bamenda 1 Sub-Division experiences a husmid tropical climate, characterized by two distinct seasons: a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season typically spans from March to October, with heavy rainfall that supports the region’s lush vegetation. Average annual rainfall ranges between 1500 mm to 2500 mm, depending on the specific location within the sub-division. Temperatures generally range from 15°C to 25°C, creating a favorable environment for diverse plant and animal species. This climatic condition not only supports rich biodiversity but also influences agricultural practices, which are vital for local communities (Climate data for Cameroon, National Meteorological Agency, 2020).

1.2.1.2 Relief and Drainage

The topography of Bamenda 1 Sub-Division is predominantly hilly and mountainous, with altitudes ranging from 1,000 meters to over 2,000 meters above sea level. The landscape is characterized by steep slopes and valleys that contribute to the region’s unique drainage patterns. Major rivers, such as the Mezam River, flow through the area, providing essential water resources for both ecosystems and human settlements. The relief features also create microclimates that support varied vegetation types, further enhancing biodiversity (Akob et al., 2023).

1.2.1.3 Vegetation and soils

The vegetation of Bamenda 1 Sub-Division is diverse, comprising tropical rainforests, grasslands, and agricultural lands. The rich soils in the region are primarily clayey and fertile, making them suitable for agriculture. However, deforestation and land conversion for farming have led to habitat loss and soil degradation. The preservation of natural vegetation is critical for maintaining soil quality, regulating water cycles, and supporting wildlife habitats (Sando et al., 2016).

1.2.2 Human settlement

Bamenda 1 Sub-Division is home to a diverse population engaged in various economic activities, including agriculture, trade, and small-scale industries. The population density varies across different areas, with urban centers experiencing higher concentrations of people. Traditional practices coexist with modern lifestyles, influencing land use patterns and resource management strategies. Community engagement in biodiversity conservation efforts is essential to promote sustainable development practices that align with local needs and cultural values (Tchouomene, 2020).

1.2.3 Statement of the Problem

Bamenda 1 Sub-Division, a vibrant region in Cameroon’s Northwest Region, is grappling with a critical biodiversity crisis. Deforestation, driven by unsustainable logging practices and agricultural expansion, is rampant, leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. This, combined with overexploitation of natural resources, such as poaching and illegal wildlife trade, further exacerbates the decline of wildlife populations and disrupts vital ecosystems.

Pollution from industries and agricultural runoff, coupled with improper waste management, contaminates water sources and degrades soil quality, posing serious risks to human health and the well-being of the environment. These challenges are further amplified by a lack of effective policies and community engagement in conservation efforts. Current strategies often fail to address the root causes of biodiversity loss, and local communities are not adequately empowered to participate in conservation decision-making processes.

This lack of coordination and involvement hampers the effectiveness of conservation programs, hindering the long-term sustainability of biodiversity and compromising the region’s economic and social future. These pressing challenges necessitate a comprehensive approach to sustainable development that prioritizes biodiversity conservation. This study will investigate how to balance economic development with ecological integrity, promote community-based conservation initiatives, and create sustainable solutions for managing natural resources in Bamenda 1 Sub-Division.

1.3 Objectives

The Main Objective;

To relate theory and practical on environmental issues and gain practical knowledge.

The Specific Objectives

To master some environmental problems in the North West Region and how to handle them

Gain knowledge on the various laws, Decrees, Orders and Decisions related to environmental issues and how to apply them.

• To gain knowledge on composting
• Identifying specific environmental problems and bring out possible solutions
• To know the ESMP plans.