In April, two Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech researchers will publicly present their doctoral theses. All ATIBT members are welcome to attend, and team links are also available to follow the sessions remotely.
Towards an integrated approach for the valorisation of secondary timber species from Central African forests
Thesis presented by Robin Doucet, 10 April 2024 at 2 pm, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech (auditorium G)
In Central Africa, a large proportion of dense rainforests are used for timber production. If managed sustainably, this economic sector can effectively complement the network of protected areas and help to preserve these remarkable forests. However, the decline in stocks of certain key timber species is jeopardising the economic viability of forest operators. To remedy this situation, diversifying the species exploited is often presented as part of the solution. However, bringing new species to market is a complex task that requires an understanding of the entire timber industry, from the precise identification of trees in the forest to the optimum use of their wood. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, Robin Doucet will present the value-added potential of Mubala (Pentaclthra macrophylla), Eyek (Pachyelasma tessmannii), Ossoko (Scyphocephalium mannii), Eveuss (Klainedoxa gabonensis) and Omvong (Dialium spp.) in semi-deciduous forest (Pallisco-CIFM) and evergreen forest (PWG-CEB).
This thesis is part of the EPHval project, funded by the PPECF (Programme de Promotion de l'Exploitation Certifiée des Forêts).
The challenging coexistence of forest elephants and selective logging in Central Africa
Thesis presented by Morgane Scalbert, 12 April 2024 at 2 pm, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech (auditorium ZT1)
In the context of a sixth extinction crisis, marked by alarming rates of defaunation and increasing human pressure, the thesis presented by Morgane Scalbert deepens our understanding of the interactions between logging and the forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), an emblematic species of African tropical forests whose populations are currently in considerable decline. By examining the impacts of logging on the presence, abundance, activity and movements of elephants, as well as the crucial role of this species in the regeneration of certain commercial tree species, this research explores the conservation potential of sustainably managed forest concessions and their possible coexistence with elephants.
This thesis is part of the ELEFOR project, funded by the PPECF (Programme de Promotion de l'Exploitation Certifiée des Forêts) and the PFF (Precious Forests Foundation).
