RESEARCH TITLE: Modelling the Impacts of Anthropogenic Activities on Forest Biomass and Forest Dependent Wildlife Population
Why this research is important?
The topic of my research is Modelling the impacts of anthropogenic activities on forest biomass and forest-dependent wildlife populations. This research is crucial because forests are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, regulate climate, and provide resources for human livelihoods. However, anthropogenic activities such as deforestation, habitat destruction, and pollution are significantly altering forest ecosystems. These activities not only reduce forest biomass but also threaten the survival of wildlife species that depend on these habitats. By modelling these impacts, this study provides insights into the extent of these changes and offer strategies for mitigating the adverse effects on both forest biomass and wildlife populations. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing sustainable forest management practices and conservation policies that balance human needs with environmental preservation.
What are the key findings or observations of your research?
The key findings of my research revealed a significant decline in forest biomass directly linked to anthropogenic activities such as deforestation and land-use changes. This decline has had a pronounced impact on wildlife populations that depend on these forests, with certain species being particularly vulnerable. The study identified logging, agriculture, and urbanization as primary drivers of these negative effects. The mathematical models developed during the research were validated and proved effective in predicting the extent of these impacts, offering a valuable tool for future conservation efforts. Overall, the findings highlight the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of human activities on forest ecosystems and their dependent wildlife.
How can the results of your research be utilized in practice?
The results of my research can be utilized in conservation planning and sustainable forest management by providing models that identify areas where forest biomass and wildlife are most at risk. This allows for targeted interventions and the development of strategies that minimize the harmful effects of human activities while balancing ecological preservation with economic needs.
Additionally, the findings can inform policy development and public education. Policymakers can use the insights to create evidence-based policies that reduce deforestation and protect biodiversity, while the research can also be used to raise public awareness about the importance of sustainable land-use practices and the conservation of forest ecosystems.
What are the key research methods and materials used in your research?
The key research methods in my study involved the use of a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and fuzzy membership functions. The ODEs were employed to model the dynamic interactions between anthropogenic activities, forest biomass, and wildlife populations over time. These equations helped capture the complex relationships and changes within the ecosystem.
Fuzzy membership functions were utilized to handle uncertainty and variability in the data, allowing for a more nuanced analysis of the impacts of human activities on forest ecosystems. This approach enabled the modelling of imprecise inputs, such as varying degrees of habitat degradation, providing a more flexible and realistic representation of environmental conditions. Together, these methods offered a robust framework for understanding and predicting the effects of anthropogenic activities on forest ecosystems.
IS there something else about your doctoral dissertation you would like to share in the press release?
In addition to its core findings, my doctoral dissertation offers actionable insights for policymakers and conservationists by detailing how human activities impact forest ecosystems and wildlife populations. The innovative use of mathematical modelling and fuzzy logic provides a novel approach that can serve as a model for future research. This work not only advances theoretical understanding but also supports the development of effective conservation strategies and sustainable management practices, aligning with broader sustainability goals. Above all, through this work, I was awarded a certificate of Top student in Research and Innovation for PhD Students.
Links to the research outputs: Published Papers
https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/4826313
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fraope.2023.100033
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40435-023-01265-8
Contact:
Name: Dr. Ibrahim Fanuel
Email: fanuel@daad-alumni.de / Ibrahim.fanuel@cbe.ac.tz
Mobile: +255 718 401 140