Journal of Environmental and Geographical Studies
https://gprjournals.org/journals/index.php/JEGS
<p><strong>Journal of Environmental and Geographical Studies</strong> (JEGS) is a quick and double blind peer-reviewed journal published by GPR Journals. The scope of this journal includes, but not limited to Climatology, Ecology, Energy Choices, Environmental Conservation, Environmental Risk Analysis, Geographical Information System (GIS), Geology, Human Geography, Implications of Urbanism, Land Use, Meteorology, Physical Geography, Pollution, Population Geography, Recycling Approaches, Waste Management & Disposal, Water Science & Technology, etc. This journal is recommended for all topics relating to environmental and geographical studies which are then published online and can availed as hard copy upon author’s request. JEGS adopts an open access publishing model to enhance high visibility of published manuscripts for maximum global exposure. Papers can be submitted via email to <a href="mailto:journals@gprjournals.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">journals@gprjournals.org</a> or <a href="https://gprjournals.org/online-submission/">online submission.</a></p>Global Peer Reviewed Journalsen-USJournal of Environmental and Geographical Studies 2958-4116Harnessing Indigenous Knowledge for Effective Butterfly Conservation: Evidence from Community Engagement in the Ebo Forest Reserve, Littoral Region, Cameroon
https://gprjournals.org/journals/index.php/JEGS/article/view/283
<p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study investigates the role of indigenous knowledge in butterfly conservation within the Ebo Forest Reserve, Littoral Region, Cameroon. Pollinators, particularly butterflies, are critical for ecosystem health, yet they face significant declines due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.</p> <p><strong>Methods: </strong>Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, local communities in Iboti and Lognanga were engaged to assess their knowledge, perceptions, and contributions to butterfly conservation. The research was conducted in communities adjacent to the Ebo Forest Reserve, Cameroon, between January and July 2024. The majority of the respondents (59%) were from the Iboti community, while 41% were from the Lognanga community. The survey included questions about ecological significance, perceived threats, and cultural associations related to butterflies. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and inferential statistics to evaluate the relationships between demographic factors and attitudes toward butterflies.</p> <p><strong>Results:</strong> The study found that while community members possess a general awareness of butterfly presence, specific ecological knowledge, such as dietary preferences, is limited. A majority (68%) frequently observe butterflies, and 83% have noted recent population changes, with most perceiving stability in butterfly numbers. Despite high interest in conservation initiatives (81.9%), significant barriers exist, including limited resources and lack of awareness about conservation efforts.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> Local ecological knowledge should be integrated into conservation strategies, with emphasize on community-led initiatives to enhance butterfly conservation in the Ebo Forest Reserve.</p> <p><strong>Recommendation:</strong> To enhance butterfly conservation efforts in the Ebo Forest Reserve, it is crucial to develop and implement community-led educational programs that focus on indigenous knowledge and ecological practices.</p>Guilen-Noel Nghokapin TatawMelle Ekane MauriceKamah Pascal BumtuAthanasius Fuashi NkwatohLevai Fofung NuvadgaLonde Roland LemlackNkwetefie Daisy Keyanghafeh Mboza Jerry Clinton Yengeh
Copyright (c) 2024 Guilen-Noel Nghokapin Tataw, Melle Ekane Maurice, Kamah Pascal Bumtu, Athanasius Fuashi Nkwatoh, Levai Fofung Nuvadga, Londe Roland Lemlack, Nkwetefie Daisy Keyanghafeh, Mboza Jerry Clinton Yengeh
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
2024-10-212024-10-213212210.58425/jegs.v3i2.283