Title:
'Sacred forests' in West Africa capture carbon and keep soil healthy
Author:
Michele Francis
Researcher, Department of Soil Science, Stellenbosch University
Published:
The Conversation, 8 April 2021
From the article:
In parts of West Africa, patches of forest have been preserved for long periods of time because of their cultural or religious significance. These “sacred forests” are believed to be inhabited and protected by gods, totem animals or ancestors. Local communities have their own rules prohibiting reckless harvesting of timber and game, which have protected the sacred forests over many generations.