487 research outputs found
The use of plant water relations to characterize tree species and sites in the drylands of northern Ethiopia
No full textWater relations of four tree species were studied in four sites in the drylands of northern Ethiopia. Predawn water potentials were significantly higher at all sites as compared to midday measurements for Acacia etbaica and Boswellia papyrifera. In contrast, Lannea fruticosa revealed this significant difference only once, while Terminalia brownii at only two of the four sites. An analysis of variance showed that A. etbaica has a wider tolerance range as compared to the other species. There was no significant difference among the four sites in terms of predawn, midday and diurnal ranges of water potential. The study revealed that A. etbaica and B. papyrifera are performing better as compared to T brownii and L. fruticosa under the current climatic conditions. Understanding the physiological basis of survival, productivity, ability to cope with low moisture availability, and growth potential of indigenous species in the drylands is essential for the utilization and promotion of these and other species. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved
The use of plant water relations to characterise tree species and sites in drylands of Northern Ethiopia
No full textForest-related policies affecting bioenergy markets in Europe
No full textThe increasing interest in the use of forest biomass as a renewable energy source has activated policy developments at all geographical levels from international and national to local. Given their high relevance for actors in the sector we focus in this chapter on giving an overview of policies at the EU level that are relevant for the development of sustainable biomass energy from forests. These include: forest, climate, energy, rural development and trade policies, as well as synergies and connections among them
Introducing Boswellia papyrifera (Del.) Hochst and its non-timber forest product, frankincense
No full textBosiwllia papyrifra has been an important Multipurpose tree species in central and eastern Africa since ancient times. The species is best known for its non-timber forest product, frankincense. In addition, it has numerous environmental, socio-economic, traditional and industrial uses. However, the species is declining at an alarming rate and thus needs priority in conservation. Populations are facing degradation due to agricultural expansion, overgrazing, fire, poor incense harvesting practices, shifting cultivation, termite and other infestations and urgent conservation measures are required to save the species. Conservation strategies could include promotion of natural regeneration through closed areas and enrichment planting. Nevertheless, more ecological and silvicultural studies are required in order to streamline specific interventions
The use of plant water relations to characterise tree species and sites in drylands of Northern Ethiopia
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Effects of Photovoltaic Solar Farms on Microclimate and Vegetation Diversity
No full textThe need for energy and the increasing importance of climate change mitigation are leading to a conversion from conventional to renewable energy sources. Solar photovoltaic (PV) power has seen the most significant increase among all renewable energy sources. However, most of these installations are land-based, significantly changing global land use (LU). The real impacts, whether positive or negative, are poorly understood. This study was undertaken to have a better understanding of the impacts of solar parks on the microclimate and vegetation dynamics. First, different solar parks were visited to take measurements of the surface temperature (Tsurf), photosynthetic active radiation (PAR), air temperature (Tair), and humidity (RH) to quantify the microclimate and perform a vegetation relevé. The measurements were taken at different positions: underneath, in between, and outside solar panels. For vegetation, the data were first converted to diversity indices, which in turn contributed to a multi-indicator land use impact assessment that evaluated effects on vegetation, biodiversity, soil and water. Solar parks had clear effects on microclimate: if the panels were high enough from the ground, they could lower the Tsurf by providing shade and enough airflow. Additionally, the multidimensional functional diversity (FD) analysis of the vegetation indicated that there was less light at a higher humidity and lower temperature underneath the panels. Interestingly, the species underneath the panels also preferred a lower pH and a higher nitrogen level. Finally, the land use impact assessment found that the total land use impact for a wheat field was higher than that of the solar park, which suggests that the conversion of conventional intensive agriculture to a solar park would be beneficial
Overall assessment of FLEGT and EUTR state of the art from the stakeholders' perspective
No full textFLEGT and EUTR are EU legal instruments to halt illegal logging, a major issue in economic, social, environmental and political terms.
Different and contrasting convictions about their effectiveness blossomed over time. Our study surveys the overall stakeholders' perspective,
offering a 360° view of FLEGT and EUTR state of the art. The methodology consists in a double stage literature review and a set of interviews
with several actors, distinguished according to their main sector of activity (academics and experts; business and trade actors; civil society and
environmental organizations; political and technical actors). They expressed their opinions about FLEGT and EUTR strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats regarding the following topics: policies, legal framework and governance; business and trade; stakeholders and social
issues; environmental sustainability and deforestation; and the possible interactions with other initiatives. Unanimous appreciation emerged
about the innovative character of the initiatives and the success in awareness raising and social inclusion. Most criticized a missing centralized
orchestration by the EC; while opinions diverged on the acknowledgement of certification schemes and private sector involvement.
Environmental impacts were slightly commented. In the end, research outcomes are compared with those emerged from evaluations
commissioned by the EC and some recommendations to policy makers are offered
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