Shea-tree agroforestry parks play a crucial role in climate mitigation and ecosystem services in West Africa, yet their carbon sequestration potential remains poorly documented. This study assesses the contribution of shea-tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) agroforestry parks in Burkina Faso, using household surveys and field inventories across three phytogeographical sectors. Findings indicate that over 89% of surveyed households have shea trees in their fields, which provide fuelwood, timber, improve soil fertility, and help control erosion. Tree density varies from 32 to 45 individuals per hectare, with an average height of 7.93 meters and a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 31.9 cm. Above-ground biomass estimates range from 15.5 to 42.8 Mg/ha, averaging 25.7 Mg/ha or 12.8 Mg of carbon per hectare. The study highlights the significant carbon sequestration potential of these agroforestry systems, though benefits vary based on tree DBH and regional factors. Notably, all surveyed trees had a DBH greater than 24 cm, indicating a lack of young trees and an urgent need for regeneration through assisted natural regeneration, planting, or a combination of both.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.19182/bft2023.356.a36903Dimensions Citation Count:
Publication year
2023
Authors
Language
English
Keywords
agroforestry, climate change mitigation, ecosystem services, shea trees, carbon sequestration, fuelwood, soil fertility, aboveground biomass
Geographic
Burkina Faso
