Forest Fringe Livelihoods at the Edge of Deforestation in Ghana

Research and policy on deforestation has often asserted it as “evil” because of the long term environmental implications for sustainable development evident in global warming, biodiversity loss and soil degradation. While this is true, it is undeniable forest degradation and deforestation has contributed tremendously to the development of households’ livelihoods, income and employment and social amenities for the sustenance of forest fringe communities. Considering the negative consequences albeit socio-economic benefits, this current research has provides a holistic discussion on the implications of deforestation on forest fringe livelihoods in Ghana, and has rather asserted deforestation as a “necessary evil”. The findings are fashioned on the tripartite relationship between development, environment and management, the major tenets of sustainable development. The book is useful for researchers and professionals in forest governance who seek to ensure sustainable forest management is a collaborative activity through broad public participation of all stakeholders in decision making and policy design and implementation.