Land use and land-use change drivers and their influence on carbon sinks in agroforestry and miombo woodland Agro-ecosystems in Tanzania

Abstract

Land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) play a key role in terrestrial carbon stock changes. The contribution of LULUCF to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is approximately 20% of the total global GHG emissions. Activities in the LULUCF however, can provide effective ways in which GHGs removals from the atmosphere occurs. This paper examined the drivers of land use and land-use changes (LULUC) that reduce emission and enhance carbon sinks in Moshi and Urambo Districts. Specifically, the study sought to understand the nature and extent of land use changes as well as examining their drivers and implications on reducing emissions and increasing carbon stocks in different pools. A sample of 297 households was systematically selected from 16 villages. The study involved a questionnaire survey for collecting socio-economic data and satellite images for remote sensing data. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to assess factors which have influence on LULUC. Land-use change was analysed based on the interpretation of satellite images. Change Detection Matrix showed a replacement of tree crops by herbaceous crops (1995-2005) and an expansion of cultivation of tree crops at the expense of herbaceous crops (2005-2015) for Moshi District and an increase of land under closed vegetation in Urambo District (2010 – 2015). Intensive farming, establishment of woodlots, use of energy efficient stoves, agroforestry practices, population growth and tree planting were among the important drivers of land use and land-use change. The study concludes that drivers of land use and land use change in Moshi and Urambo districts are strongly related to GHG emissions and carbon sinks. Rigorous knowledge on agricultural practices that reduce emissions and enhance carbon stock should be encouraged.