UI Expert Advocates for Flexible and Robust Forest Information Systems

Dr. Daniel A. Akintunde-Alo, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Ibadan, emphasized the significance of developing flexible and robust forest information systems for evidence-based decision-making and sustainable forest management.

May 27, 2024 - 14:32

UI Expert Advocates for Flexible and Robust Forest Information Systems

Dr. Daniel A. Akintunde-Alo, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social and Environmental Forestry at the University of Ibadan, has emphasized the importance of developing flexible and robust forest information systems. Speaking at the 4th Faculty Lecture of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources, Dr. Akintunde-Alo highlighted the critical role of such systems in supporting evidence-based decision-making and sustainable forest management practices.

In his lecture titled "From Bytes to Branches: Bridging the Gap between Forestry Information Systems and Sustainable Forestry," Dr. Akintunde-Alo proposed a holistic approach to address the gap between data and practical forestry management. He stressed the need to leverage technological innovations like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and data analytics, alongside ecological and socio-economic considerations, to enhance forest management strategies and promote biodiversity conservation.

Dr. Akintunde-Alo underscored the negative impacts of deforestation on land surface temperature and the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. With Nigeria's forest cover currently below the recommended 25% land area, he emphasized the urgency of integrating forestry information systems with sustainable forestry practices.

The expert called for collaboration among forest scientists, policymakers, local communities, and other professionals to conduct multidisciplinary research aimed at developing a more robust forestry information system. Additionally, he recommended efforts to reduce deforestation and promote agroforestry practices, urging state governments to play a proactive role in this regard.

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Dr. Akintunde-Alo also advocated for capacity building programs to empower forestry professionals with the necessary skills for effectively utilizing information systems and technologies. He emphasized that empowering stakeholders in this manner would maximize the potential of forestry information systems and facilitate sustainable forest management practices.

The lecture by Dr. Akintunde-Alo underscores UI's commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges through research and multidisciplinary collaboration.