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Non-timber forest products increase forests resource utilization efficiency and promote rural areas economic development. Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst. (Reishi) is a mushroom having great potential being cultivated as NFTPs. However, there is still a lack of effects about cultivating Reishi in forests on soil organic carbon (C) pool and microbial community, which are important for designing sustainable cultivating strategies. Therefore, this study sampled and analyzed soil from forests cultivated Reishi at 2, 4, and 6 years (LZ2, LZ4, and LZ6, respectively), and in reference natural evergreen broad-leaved forest (CK). Our results manifested that, compared with CK, LZ2 slightly increased total organic carbon (TOC), and significantly increased microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) content by 29.99% and 28.67%, respectively (P < 0.05). Besides, compared with CK, LZ2 significantly increased the ratio of MBC/TOC and WSOC/TOC by 37.50% and 35.00%, respectively (P < 0.05). In contrast, these parameters decreased in LZ4 and LZ6 slightly, compared with CK. Consequently, LZ2 had the highest average well-color development values and microbial functional diversity indexes, while these parameters declined in LZ4 and LZ6, compared with CK. As a result, microbial community functional structure in LZ2 was different from that in LZ4, and LZ6, while that in LZ4 and LZ6 showed similarity, according to the principal component analysis and PERMANOVA test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study provides an assessment of the distribution of key Non-Timber Forest Product species in India, namely Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa, Buchanania lanzan Spreng., Madhuca longifolia (J. Koenig ex L.) J. F. Macbr., Phyllanthus emblica L. and Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb. The suitable habitat was analyzed under current climate scenarios and subsequently, the future distribution (2050s and 2070s) was mapped under RCP 2.6 and 8.5 scenarios, along with the past distribution (mid-Holocene, ~ 6000 cal year BP) using the MaxEnt species distribution model. The distribution of all species is primarily driven by key bioclimatic factors, including annual precipitation (Bio_12), mean annual temperature (Bio_1), isothermality (Bio_3) and precipitation of the coldest quarter (Bio_19). The results indicate that the present distribution of these species is mainly centred in the Western Ghats regions, Central Highlands, North-eastern India and Siwalik hills. The current study suggests that under the future climate change, the suitable habitat for A. marmelos and T. bellirica is expected to increase while for B. lanzan, M. longifolia and P. emblica, it is projected to decline. A. marmelos and T. bellirica are anticipated to exhibit resilience to future climate changes and are expected to be minimally affected, while B. lanzan, M. longifolia and P. emblica are highly sensitive to high temperature and alteration in rainfall pattern expected under future climate changes. The projections of habitat suitability areas can be used as a valuable foundation for developing conservation and restoration strategies aimed at alleviating the climate change impacts on NTFP species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for nontimber forest products (NTFPs) has increased significantly in recent years. Hundreds of plant species that grow naturally in Türkiye have medicinal and aromatic value. Medicinal and aromatic plants are primarily used as a sources of tea, spices, condiments and essential oils. Species belonging to the genus Arbutus L. are used for decorative purposes and as fuel wood in many wood-based industries, they also have a wide range of uses in packaging, chairs making and furniture production. Additionally, the fruits of these trees are widely consumed by humans and animals because they are rich in sugar and vitamin C. It is predicted that changes in climatic conditions will significantly change the distribution, composition and function of forests threatening biodiversity. The purpose of this study was to model current and future potential geographical distributions of Arbutus unedo L., which is among the species that naturally grow in Türkiye and is of substantial value in terms of its ecological contribution to forest ecosystems, based on species presence data and environmental variables (bioclimatic variables and altitude). The current and future distribution area models for Arbutus unedo L. indicate that the potential distribution areas of the species in the coming years will gradually decrease, and in the SSP5 8.5 model, which represents the highest level of world resource usage this gradual decrease will reach its highest level and there will be no suitable distribution area left for the species. Therefore, it is predicted that the species will become endangered. In-situ and ex-situ conservation measures need to be taken to ensure the sustainability of the species in forestry and landscape areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Young shoots of Aralia elata and young leaves of Eleutherococcus senticosus are two major non-timber forest products in northeastern China. However, human activities and climate change have resulted in serious threats to the habitats of two trees, which greatly limits resource conservation and exploitation of economic forest trees. We used the MaxEnt model to predict the suitable habitats of the two economic trees and analyzed the dominant factors affecting their distribution. The results showed that the suitable habitat areas of A. elata and E. senticosus in the current period were 159950 km2 and 123449 km2, respectively, and the suitable habitats of both economic forest trees were located in the eastern part of the northeast region. Climate factors (Annual precipitation, Precipitation Seasonality) and land use factors are important variables influencing changes in suitable habitat for both trees. With the change of climate and land use in the future, the overall trend of suitable habitat for both economic forest trees shows a northward and then a southward migration. These results may provide assistance in developing strategies for resource conservation and sustainable use of A. elata and E. senticosus, and we suggest that stable and suitable habitats should be selected as areas for in situ conservation and breeding of the two economic forest trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancement of thermally activated dislocation motion by solute hydrogen (H) has been envisaged in Fe–Cr–Ni austenitic steel through accelerated stress relaxation and a prolonged creep duration. Nevertheless, differences in the imposed stress/strain between the compared non- and H-charged samples at the starts of these mechanical transients, as well as involvements of other obstacles (e.g., alloying elements and forest dislocations), mask the essential effects of H. We performed stress relaxation and strain rate jump tests at multiple stress/strain for Type310S austenitic steel with ∼7600 at ppm H at 296 K. The measured strain rate sensitivity (SRS) was evaluated via a methodology so-called Haasen plot. By screening the latent factors above, primary role of H was revisited: they work as short-range obstacles, hindering the dislocation movement. Multiple H atoms potentially participate in each thermal activation event, giving rise to a stress-equivalent activation volume and a proportionality between H concentration and yield strength. [Display omitted] • Revision of the tenet on an enhanced thermally activated dislocation motion by H. • Transient mechanical tests involving stress relaxation and strain rate jump. • Strain rate sensitivity (SRS) vs. flow stress as an evaluation method: Haasen plot. • Increase of SRS by solute H as short-range obstacles for dislocation motion. • A new model for rationalizing the H-induced solid solution-hardening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over recent decades, the sustainable use of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) has offered the promise of reconciling the dilemma between forest conservation and economic development, generating income for local populations. Accordingly, since the 1990s, manifold initiatives, often supported by international donors, have been investing in developing such NTFP value chains. Specifically in the Brazilian context, initiatives have proliferated as a response to the challenges of the largest remaining tropical forest ecosystem—the Amazon region and its inhabitants. Have they worked? What do we know about their impact? To provide for the first time an adequate basis for a more systematic analysis of the impact of NTFP initiatives in the Brazilian Amazon, this article presents a mapping of current and past initiatives supporting NTFP extractivism. The mapping drew on databases of funding organizations and interviews with key informants. The analysis revealed a large number of initiatives (nearly 200) strongly clustered in some areas, like around Belém, along major roads such as the BR 364, and along the Juruá rivers, concentrated on a few products with relatively high commercial value, mostly implemented by civil society organizations and targeting traditional peoples and communities. As interventions for NTFP development, the initiatives offered capacity building, financial support, and facilitate market access. With regard to the latter, the initiatives varied considerably. The vast majority promoted products, while a much smaller number engaged in company partnerships or government procurement. Despite the large number of initiatives, there is insufficient knowledge to gauge the impacts of different strategies of local resources and their users. A clear understanding of the effects of NTFP-based development initiatives and how impacts are generated is essential to seize the potential of the bioeconomy for achieving sustainable development for the Brazilian Amazon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest resources are renewable, and the rational exploitation and utilization of forest resources are not only conducive to sustainable development on a population scale, they can also lead to higher economic benefits. Based on the actual timber harvest problem, this paper establishes the joint harvest model of timber and non-timber with nonlinear harvest items. In the numerical simulation, by comparing the existing proportional harvest model, it is concluded that the optimal harvest strategy of nonlinear harvest items in this paper can obtain larger ecological benefits and be more conducive to the sustainable development of a population. Firstly, using the qualitative theory of ordinary differential equations, the dynamic behavior of the model is studied, and the existence and stability of the equilibrium point of the model are proven. Secondly, the optimal control solution is obtained by using the optimal control theory. Finally, the optimal harvesting strategy of timber and non-timber products is given based on the numerical simulation results, and a comparison of the effects of different parameters on the optimal harvest strategy, which provides a certain theoretical basis for the sustainable development of the ecological economy of forestry, is carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyse the emerging need to change customary law (adat law in Indonesia) and identify the role of adat functionaries. The experience of the Mollo adat law community (indigenous people) from the south-eastern part of Indonesia, Timor Island, shows that the sudden and massive collection of haukonof (Usnea barbata), a non-timber forest product, has caused forest destruction. How do the adat functionaries respond to the situation? Is adat law sufficient to respond to the sudden change of their livelihood? If it is not, then what to do? Furthermore, what are the impacts on the functionaries? What are their difficulties, and how do they solve them? This article is based on an in-depth ethnographic study held in July—September 2021. Data are collected through interviews and observation. The adat functionaries want to restrict the people from picking and collecting haukonof , but there is no adat law specifically ruling on it. Only the adat functionaries should protect the environment. The pickers and the collectors of haukonof are the members of the communities. The kinship relation between the functionaries and the members complicates legal enforcement. The adat functionaries' authority and the sustainability of the livelihoods are in danger. The immediate solution is borrowing state law which obliges a person who utilises non-timber forest products in the Protection Forest to hold a valid permit. It effectively reduces the number of haukonof picking and collection by the community members. Adat's law-making process does not work in isolation. It is an interactive process that needs continuous foresight observation from the adat functionaries to find the appropriate solution to protect the environment and the people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Asia Minor Studies is the property of Asia Minor Studies and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Bog bilberry (Vaccinium uliginosum L.) is considered a highly valued non-wood forest product (NWFP) species with edible and medicinal uses in East Asia. It grows in the northeastern forests of China, where stand attributes and structure jointly determine its population characteristics and individuals' growth. Mapping the regional distributions of its population characteristics can be beneficial in the management of its natural resources, and this mapping should be predicted using machine learning modeling to obtain accurate results. In this study, a total of 60 stands were randomly chosen and screened to investigate natural bog bilberry populations in the eastern mountains of Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces in northeastern China. Individual height, canopy cover area, and fresh weight all increased in stands at higher latitudes, and shoot height was also higher in the eastern stands. The rootstock grove density showed a polynomial quadratic distribution pattern along increasing topographical gradients, resulting in a minimum density of 0.43–0.52 groves m−2 in stands in the southern part (44.3016° N, 129.4558° E) of Heilongjiang. Multivariate linear regression indicated that the bog bilberry density was depressed by host forest tree species diversity; this was assessed using both the Simpson and Shannon–Wiener indices, which also showed polynomial quadratic distribution patterns (with a modeling minimum of 0.27 and a maximum of 1.21, respectively) in response to the increase in latitude. Structural equation models identified positive contributions of tree diameter at breast height and latitude to shoot height and a negative contribution of longitude to the bog bilberry canopy area. Random forest modeling indicated that dense populations with heavy individuals were distributed in eastern Heilongjiang, and large-canopy individuals were distributed in Mudanjiang and Tonghua. In conclusion, bog bilberry populations showed better attributes in northeastern stands where host forest trees had low species diversity, but the dominant species had strong trunks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) is a valuable non-wood forest product (NWFP) in the global export market, with Turkey being the largest supplier. Laurel harvesting is crucial for achieving long-term goals in the NWFP industry. This study assessed the effectiveness of a hybrid framework for prioritizing management strategies for laurel harvesting to boost the forest-based bioeconomy in Turkey. The existing literature highlights the use of multi-criteria decision-making methods when dealing with multiple conflicting criteria. This study proposes a systematic and comprehensive framework to analyze the current situation and develop effective laurel harvesting strategies. An integrated SWOT-fuzzy Pivot Pairwise Relative Criteria Importance Assessment (F-PIPRECIA) and TOWS Matrix approach was used. Data from ten decision makers evaluated four separate SWOT criteria against thirty-two sub-criteria. The most critical strategy identified was Maxi S2 × Maxi O1 (0.0803). Sensitivity analyses validated the results. This study found that the most effective strategies in Turkey include improving environmental and forest planning tools through circular management methods, promoting investment in forest infrastructure, supporting training and entrepreneurship programs in laurel harvesting, and strengthening innovative forest-based value chains. The hybrid framework aims for sustainable laurel resource management while maximizing economic returns. Implementing this methodology will help conserve biodiversity and enhance local communities' well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the cultivation systems of C. elegans through the analysis of production and commercialization in three municipalities in the high mountain region of Veracruz, Mexico. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study was conducted in Tepatlaxco, Zongolica, and Omealca, Veracruz, Mexico. From January to July 2022, a survey was administered to 84 producers of Camedor palm using convenience sampling. In addition, interviews with key informants and participant observation were conducted. Results: Camedor palm production occurs in small production units ranging from 1±0.05 to 7.0 hectares, primarily managed by male producers (93%) with an average age of 48 years and 6 years of schooling. Planting densities range from 35,000 to 100,000 plants per hectare, and leaf cutting is conducted on a quarterly basis, yielding between 1000 to 3700 rolls per hectare at an average price of $14.00 Mexican pesos per roll paid to the producer. Prior to cultivating Camedor palm, 56% of producers were growing coffee. The main driving factor for cultivation is the steady generation of income. Limitations/Implications: This is a specific case study; therefore, the results are limited to descriptive statements about the study area. Findings/Conclusions: Producers utilize non-timber forest products as alternatives to crises in other crops and investment constraints within production units. The production of C. elegans is accessible, requires low investment, and is compatible with family farming. However, yields in some cases are low, and the marketing network shows high intermediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the importance of cupuassu, a tropical fruit native to the Amazon, to Brazil's biodiversity, the Amazon biome, and its potential for economic development. Cupuassu is a Non-Timber Forest Product and a fruit of the Theobroma genus, which also includes cocoa. Just in the state of Pará alone, cupuassu production in 2019 was over 4100 t with a gross value of 2.6 million USD produced. However, cupuassu cultivation still needs investment through technological advances to overcome threats such as witches' broom disease and mycotoxin contamination. Cupuassu fruit is composed of pulp, seeds, and a shell; all these parts have a chemical composition with numerous bioactive compounds, especially the seeds, which also contain stimulant compounds, besides lipids and proteins. The processing of the whole cupuassu fruit has its economic value in the commercialization of the pulp, the extraction of cupuassu butter, and a product called Cupulate®. However, in this process, the cake resulting from the oil pressing, often considered a waste product, has potential as a source of proteins, peptides, lipids, and bioactive molecules with functional and nutritional properties. Recycling this fruit processing waste can create high-value-added products for various industries and promote a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) have been shown to play an important role in the livelihoods of rural communities, especially when experiencing an economic shock. However, their role at the macro-level is less understood. This paper assembled unique data from 24 countries and determined the contribution of NTFPs to employment and the effect of weather shocks on employment in NTFPs. Results show that NTFPs contribute about 0.03% to national employment and make up about 2% of the total agriculture sector labour force. Weather shocks (droughts and floods) increase the number of people employed in NTFPs by more than 16,000 workers per year, which is about 0.8% of the total agriculture labour force, and this effect is increasing in forest size. We contribute to the literature on the role of forests and NTFPs in employment creation at the national level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Tropical peatlands play a crucial role in the global ecosystem. Thesedistinctive ecosystems are frequently regarded as peripheral areas that are not suitable for agricultural purposes. Peatlands serve as efficient carbon storage systems in a consistent climate, however, they are vulnerable to alterations. This study focuses on analyzing the dynamic of peatland use land cover changes, its driver and impact on green house gas emission, and rehabilitating degraded peatlands in Jambi province, Indonesia, specifically in the Bram Itam and Londerang peat forest reserves. This study was depicted into 3 objectives consisted of 1) Utilize spatial analysis to examine the dynamics of peatland use change and the trajectory of peatland use, as well as to identify the drivers behind these changes; 2) describe the effects of altering peatland utilization; and 3) describe seedling performance planted on the peatland forest of Jambi province, as Tanjung Jabung Barat and Tanjung Jabung Timur. METHODS: Land-use and land-cover change analysis was carried out utilizing various map resources. Cellular Automata-Markov is employed to forecast forthcoming land cover alterations by evaluating the likelihood of land cover transitions throughout a given period. Planting trials using native peatland tree species were conducted at 2 locations with 2 different rehabilitation models following social typology of the sites. FINDINGS: Key findings indicate that peatland conversion to non forest use significantly increases greenhouse gas emissions, while rehabilitation with native tree species shows promising results in carbon sequestration. Peatland use land cover alteration in anthropogenically disturbed peat areas significantly contributes to emissions through peat decomposition and fires. Biophysical analysis reveals variations in peat depth, water table levels, and precipitation between these sites. The two locations exhibit notable disparities in terms of peat soil attributes, such as potential of hydrogen, nutrient composition, and exchangeable cations. This study examines the growth performance of several native tree species that were planted on degraded peatlands. Native peatland tree species like Shorea balangeran, Ilex cymosa, and Fagraea crenulata show promising survival and growth rates. Areca nut (Areca catechu), a non native peatland species, was planted for non-timber forest product purposes. This study delivers significant insights for policymakers looking to strike a balance between economic priorities and environmental conservation. CONCLUSION: Land use change that results in the degradation of peatlands must be avoided because it will be a source of greenhouse gas emissionsThe selection of suitable indigenous tree species holds significant importance in the restoration of peatlands, taking into account ecological, social, and economic considerations. The findings support potential for wet agroforestry and paludiculture to restore peatlands, mitigate carbón dioxide emissions, and enhance livelihoods while emphasizing the need for inclusive governance and technical capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distance between forest and forest villages as a factor has specific importance in designing the interface of forest dependency. Scholars have widely adopted the forest dependency model, which, by indirectly utilising the distance decay principle, can interpret the distance impact on forest dependency. The present empirical study thus attempted to understand how, in the case of Indian forestry, community dependency altered in relation to its distance from the forest. What are the associated elements that shaped such differences, and finally, is it possible for the existing forest dependency model to explain this distance interference using the distance decay principle? In achieving these goals using multiple linear regression, the study tried to understand the impact of distance along with other factors of forest dependency in an Indian protected forest region. Further, using bivariate logistic regression, it identified the differential pattern of dependency in the forest core and fringe villages in association with their purposes and the nature of the collection. Finally, the overall findings revealed a different kind of distance and forest dependency interrelation based on the differential purposes and nature of collections that denied the acceptance of the above-mentioned model and principle in the setting of forest dependency in rural India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tens of thousands of plant species globally are harvested to varying extents as non-timber forest products (NTFPs). Local populations of many NTFPs face significant pressures from harvesters, often leading to calls for harvesting guidelines to promote sustainable offtakes. However, most studies to determine sustainable harvest levels implicitly assume that the entire population is available to harvesters. Yet, certain areas or portions of particular NTFP populations outside of protected areas may not be open to harvesting because they are in some sort of cultural or spatial refuge. Using a mixed-methods approach we assessed the prevalence and efficacy of refugia for 70 NTFP plant species at seven communal land sites in south-eastern South Africa. Based on reports from local harvesters, approximately 10 % of the 70 species had part of their population in a refuge. For most of these, populations within a refuge showed lower levels of harvesting and were in a better condition than adjacent populations not in a refuge. These results demonstrate that studies assessing the sustainability of harvesting of NTFP populations should account for whether refugia are present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in non-destructive evaluation systems for predicting mechanical properties of cross-laminated timber appear to have been limited to laboratory scale, reduced sample sizes, or difficult practical solutions for industry implementation. This study has developed classical vibration analysis methods for industry adoption in large-scale, rapid panel characterisation through frequency analysis. The non-destructive method allowed for the prediction of the elastic moduli in both axial directions (Ex and Ey) and shear moduli (Gxz, Gyz, and Gxy) for thin or thick plates. The comparison with the static reference method and non-destructive technique showed a good consistency for predicting the elastic and shear moduli of the cross-laminated timber with mean percentage differences for Ex, Ey, and Gxy of 5.2%, 7.9%, and 18.9%, respectively. An observation was made that the accurate determination of the mechanical properties required enough correctly identified frequencies/modes. Mode shapes generated from experimental data through modal assurance criterion were compared with finite element analysis to confirm the assessment method yielded frequencies specific to the panel, rather than other contributing effects (environment, boundary conditions, panel variability, mesh resolution). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Forestry Review is the property of Commonwealth Forestry Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article discusses the gender bias present in forestry policies, specifically focusing on community-based forest management in southern countries such as India, Nepal, and Indonesia. While women are involved in deliberative forums, their participation is limited to providing suggestions without direct consideration in decision-making. International frameworks, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, highlight the importance of gender mainstreaming in the forestry sector. The article also highlights the case of the Women's Farmers Group in Papua, which empowers women and increases their participation in forestry activities. The authors suggest that long-term actions and collective action among agencies are necessary for effective sustainable forest management. [Extracted from the article]

A comprehensive review of the non-timber forest product (NTFP) sector from 1980 to 2022 was undertaken. The study employed a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology, incorporating explicit keywords. The results indicate that NTFPs underwent significant evolution, including research and development changes, particularly following the Rio de Janeiro summit. Most published research originated from the United States, accounting for 24% of the total; Brazil and India each contributed 10% of the published research. We included 316 potential research items: 262 articles, 19 book chapters, 27 review articles, and eight conference papers. The review analysis highlighted that NTFPs are crucial in meeting food requirements, obtaining specific medicinal resources, and acquiring material inputs for rural households, serving as a safety net during agrarian distress. NTFPs play a crucial role in promoting the development of the bio-economy. In low- and high-income nations with abundant bio-resources, NTFP value chains are increasingly pertinent for generating revenue, enhancing livelihoods, and reducing poverty in forest dependent communities. Further, the analysis emphasized that NTFP consumption, utilization, and sales occur at the household level, and its comprehensive assessment is challenging, leading to the need for a reevaluation of approaches that include value chain analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecuador is a multicultural and megadiverse country where nearly 50 species of wild edible macrofungi (WEM), used by 12 indigenous peoples, have been reported. The Kichwa use 29 species of mushrooms, but aspects of their ecology are unknown. The aim of this study was to study the richness, use, substrates and fruiting seasons of WEM consumed by two peri-urban Kichwa communities settled in the piedmont between the Andes and the Amazon. Between May 2019 to April 2020, we conducted 56 interviews with adults and 12 walks in the chagras and forests. People recognized 26 fungal names related to 12 species of mushrooms, 11 basidiomycetes and one ascomycete. Three species were the most culturally important : Favolus tenuiculus, Bresodolia paradoxa and Lentinus concavus, defined by their abundance, economic importance and taste. Six mushroom species were newly reported for the Kichwa group and four species added to the list of species in the country. All the fungi were lignicolous; they were found on the trunks of 16 species of plants in the chagras. The plant-trees: P. discolor, Inga edulis and C. alliodora were the most common substrates. These species are abundant in the chagras and frequently used for their wood. Ecological and traditional knowledge related to WEM is important to enhance management practices in situ and ex situ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: More than half of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces limited access to safe drinking water. Unimproved water sources can pose risks to the health of entire households, particularly women and children. Despite the fact that East African countries have some of the poorest drinking water infrastructures globally, there is a lack of published data on this issue. Consequently, the objective of this study was to examine access to safe drinking water and its determinants among households in East Africa, utilizing recent nationally representative data. Methods: This study analyzed data from recent demographic and health surveys conducted in 12 East African nations between 2011 and 2022. Data were gathered from 204,275 households. A stratified two-stage cluster sampling method was employed, with enumeration areas serving as the main sampling units and households serving as the secondary sampling units. Binary and multiple multilevel logistic regression were used to examine the relevant factors associated with the use of different sources of drinking water in the region. In binary regression and multiple regression, P values of ≤ 0.2 and < 0.05, respectively, were used to determine the statistical significance of variables in the final model. Results: Approximately 72.62% (95% CI = 72.43, 72.83) of households have utilized improved sources of drinking water. Household heads aged 25–35 years (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.14), 36–45 years (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.14), and > 45 years (AOR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.14), those with secondary/higher education (AOR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.20–1.29), and individuals in wealth index categories of poorest (AOR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.16, 0.18), poorer (AOR = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.19, 0.22), middle (AOR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.24, 0.27), and richer (AOR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.34, 0.38) were associated with improved sources of drinking water. Additionally, female household leaders (AOR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.20, 1.26), > 30 min of time taken to access the water source (AOR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.95, 2.05), improved toilet facilities (AOR = 2.25, 95% CI = 2.19, 2.31), rural residence (AOR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.42, 0.45), high community wealth (AOR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.13–1.51), community media exposure (AOR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.15, 1.51) were associated with improved sources of drinking water, respectively. Conclusion: Approximately three-quarters of the population in East Africa has access to improved drinking water, although the quality of water in the region is still considered poor. It is important for relevant organizations to collaborate in order to improve the quality of drinking water, with special attention given to high-risk groups such as communities with high poverty and low literacy rates, poor households, and rural residents. Strengthening women's empowerment and increasing mass media exposure can also play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of improved drinking water sources in East Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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There is a need for innovative approaches that can accommodate the rural population and manage to keep the rural population in the settlement. At this point, it is important to carry out actions that will adequately meet the living conditions of rural areas and to increase the income levels of rural people. The protection of forests and the maintenance of biological diversity are important in terms of non-wood forest products collected from the forests by the villagers living in that region, and it is very important for the sustainability and economic future of life in the region. In this study, a questionnaire was collected from 130 households living in the region to determine the importance of mushrooms, which grew naturally in the mountains of Strandja and were used for consumption, in terms of family economy and development. The empirical analysis was based on a face-to-face survey of 130 respondents living in villages close to the Strandja Mountains and collecting mushrooms in 2019. The answers given to the questions, which determined the opinions of the participants about the mushrooms growing in nature, were taken with a 5-point Likert scale and factor analysis was performed. Villagers collecting mushrooms could not get the income they wanted from the products they obtained. It was determined that the income of mushroom collectors from mushrooms contributed to their daily needs, but did not make a significant contribution to increasing their welfare level. For this, villagers needed to establish cooperatives and create their own sales points. Since the mushroom collectors used the mushrooms in their diets, the villagers should be trained in mushroom drying and canning to ensure mushroom consumption throughout the year. In the research, it was observed that the local people were aware of the contribution of mushrooms to the economy and that a large part of their food consumption consisted of mushrooms grown in nature and therefore it was important in rural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest-dwelling residents frequently collect non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for various reasons, such as food, medicine, firewood, religious reasons, or handicrafts. This study examines the multiple benefits derived from NTFPs and how they contribute to the livelihoods of Ghanaian communities to alleviate poverty. Resources and services provided by NTFPs have an essential role in providing economic, nutritional, medicinal, cultural, and environmental benefits. This study examines the diverse range of NTFPs locals collect, such as chewing sticks, games, herbs, honey, leaves, mushrooms, pestles, raffia and palms, snails, and straws. In addition to serving different purposes, these NTFPs contribute to income generation, food security, health care, cultural practices, and the protection of the environment. A qualitative research approach was used in this study to collect data through semi-structured interviews and focus groups with members on multiple collections of NTFPs and their multiple benefits. We interviewed 732 residents regarding their multiple NTFPs and their potential to improve the livelihood of the locals. The data for the study were analysed using descriptive statistics. As a result of the survey, the frequency and percentages of responses were analysed for each indicator related to multiple values of NTFPs. Both males and females collected a list of NTFPs during the survey. Regarding NTFPs used for sale, 275 were reported, representing 37.57% of the total. In addition to emphasising the importance of sustainable management practices and equitable distribution of benefits, the study explores the multiple benefits of NTFPs for poverty alleviation in Ghanaian communities. It is essential to ensure the conservation of forest ecosystems and promote inclusive policies to harness the potential of NTFPs and maximise their positive impact on livelihoods. NTFPs provide multiple benefits for Ghanaian communities, including income, nutrition, healthcare, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. To promote sustainable development, it is imperative to understand the role of NTFPs and implement appropriate strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve a sustainable development path that harmonizes ecological and economic considerations, China has advocated the "two mountains" concept: "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets". This idea posits that those who protect the environment can economically benefit by selling pristine landscapes and utilizing rich ecological resources. This paper use "the equivalence factor method" to calculate ecological benefits, introduces a technical measure—the conversion rate of ecosystem service value—and analyzes its temporal and spatial evolution from 2003 to 2020 in the operational areas of 87 state-owned forestry enterprises in Northeast China. The findings show: (1) a significant improvement in ecosystem-service quality, with its value increasing from 404.7 to 850.2 billion CNY between 2003 and 2020. The restoration of the ecological environment in China's KSFR provides a foundation for economic and social development. (2) A decrease in the economic gains derived by operators from developing protected ecosystems, with the most significant decline observed in economic benefits generated from the supply product, including timber harvesting. However, the industrial structure in KSFR shifted from being dominated by timber production to diversified development, with non-timber forest resources becoming an important part of regional economic growth. (3) Significant potential for realizing the value of ecosystem services, evidenced by an increasing trend in the conversion rates of cultural, regulatory, and supporting services. These findings underscore the effectiveness of China's natural forest protection and restoration policies in optimizing forest ecology and realizing the "two mountains" concept through appropriate market transactions and ecological compensation mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Fruit trees are a source of natural resources and economic income for some local communities. Capulin (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) is a tree native to North America that spreads wildly and is associated with different uses (e.g. food, medicinal, cabinetmaking, timber). The objective of this work is to analyze the ethnobotanical knowledge, use and management associated with the capulin (P. serotina) for the recovery of local knowledge in two Mazahua communities. Through the snowball technique, 59 semi-structured interviews were carried out in the communities of Santa María Citendeje and San Miguel Tenochtitlán, Jocotitlán, State of Mexico, Mexico. The interviews included sections such as: name in native language, parts used, season and method of collection, identification of the quality of the fruit and associated economic activities. The data were analyzed through mention frequencies and the consensus index. In both communities, the capulin (P. serotina) is called “Nres’e” or “Nrensje” in the Mazahua language and is used mainly for food purposes, followed by other uses such as: medicinal, fuel, forage and cabinetmaking. The fruit collection season is from June to August and the method of collection is through cutting by cluster or fruit by fruit. Three types of fruit can be distinguished according to their color and flavor. This study identifies a local use of wild capulin populations, so it is important to promote management strategies that protect the genetic diversity of these populations and improve both the provision of ecosystem services (e.g. living barrier, barrier to control erosion), such as the economic potential for the sale of fruit, wood, teas and derived products (e.g. tamales, jams, water, tea, etc.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forestry together with the industry based on wood and non-wood forest products (NWFPs) represents an important activity and branch of the national economy. In accordance with that, the work is divided into two chapters, one of which analyzes wood, and the other of NWFPs. Therefore, the aim of the research is to examine the market trends and potential of forestry in the part of central Serbia (Central forest area). The purpose of the research is to identify trends in the categories of felling, production and sale of wood assortments of beech, oak and poplar and to analyses the commercial aspect and the way of organizing the marketing mix in companies that deal with the purchase, processing and placement of NWFPs. The Mann-Kendall test was used for the analysis of trends in wood products, while a survey was created for the analysis of companies in the field of NWFPs, which included 29 open and closed questions, with conceptual units related to the marketing mix. For the purposes of the research, primary and secondary data were used and the time period 2008-2017 was covered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indonesia’s forest area is decreasing every year, and the high pressure from the community has caused massive public access to forests, so there is a need for solutions to overcome tenure problems and community welfare. The policies offered as a solution is social forestry with a multibusiness forestry system. The research aims are to formulate multi-business NTFP utilization development strategies. The analysis used the SWOT and AHP combination methods to formulate the best possible development strategy. Based on the research conducted, the best strategy for developing multi-business NTFPs utilization is a growth-oriented strategy that focuses on SO strategy, as follows: increasing the number of species combinations, business diversification, taking advantage of FMUs and local government's role in supporting the diversification of NTFPs utilization, actively involved in sharing information which is carried out both to fellow members and outside parties, promotion of products or commodities to expanding the market and attracting investors, and empowerment through community institutions with assistance and training. The strategies are expected to improve the quality of the forest and community welfare so that the main functions of the forest are maintained but still provide benefits to the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest communities have a rich heritage of gathering, producing, and using non-timber forest products (NTFPs) as food. They have maintained and transferred traditional knowledge related to NTFPs through their networks over generations. Considering the food value of NTFPs, traditional knowledge has become an important social asset, and its functions in forest communities are clearly identifiable. This study systematically analyzed the research on traditional knowledge related to NTFPs as food—to demonstrate the status and trends of research in this regard—using a systematic review method and topic modeling. We found that studies predominantly focused on medicinal plants from Asian and African countries and their effect. Through topic modeling, research keywords were classified into six topics—namely, ethnomedicinal practices, biodiversity, measurement, community and food security, traditionality, and culture. This study's findings indicate three key messages—specifically, the dominance of traditional knowledge related to NTFPs as medicinal foods, a methodological gap in traditional knowledge research, and the contribution of ecosystem services of NTFPs to community sustainability.

The commercialization of non-timber forest products beyond in-house consumption is a strategy for alleviating rural poverty and forest degradation. With the implementation of the ecological civilization program, the Chinese government has explored the value realization mechanism of sustainable ecological products, and many successful cases of agricultural product commercialization have emerged. Focusing on the matsutake of Shangri-La as an example, this study applies both qualitative and quantitative analysis of semi-structured interviews, participatory observation, secondary data collection, and statistical analysis for the dynamics of the matsutake commodity chain construction in the southwest plateau of China to obtain unique insights into contemporary rural China. Specifically, the interrelationships and functional logic of diverse participants in the core process of commodity management were analyzed. We found that the upstream and downstream participants in the matsutake commodity chain are subject to institutional constraints, such as land tenure and non-unified standards, and that markets are crucial to matsutake's trading in Shangri-La. Certain participants along the commodity chain have inefficient information sources, while middlemen have greater autonomy in the matsutake transaction process and a larger profit margin. Additionally, the involvement of the government and non-governmental organizations impacts the preservation of natural resources and the creation of a stable market order, but policies and funds tend to be short-lived. To improve the commodity chain sustainability of non-timber forest products in plateau areas, it is necessary to consider social and cultural factors, ensure the equity of different participants in the commodity chain, and protect traditional local knowledge related to natural resource management.

Abstract The seed, the main commercialized non-timber forest product of the Brazil nut tree, still lacks information about its physical characteristics for the promotion of its germination, optimization of post-harvest processes, and industrial processing. Showed that, although each Brazil nut matrix produces fruits and seeds with homogeneous shape and weight, the batches of fruits and seeds from each matrix differ from one another. The PCA showed that most of the variables analyzed interacted with the three geometric dimensions of the seeds, allowing for differentiation between matrices and establishing criteria for seed size classes. To design or use mechanical equipment for the industrial processing of seeds, segregation of matrices with seeds that have similar physical characteristics is essential to the development and/or use of the equipment. The study reveals that each Brazil nut matrix produces fruits and seeds with consistent shape and weight. Despite the within-matrix homogeneity, distinct differences were observed between batches of seeds from each matrix. This suggests that environmental factors or genetic variations might influence the physical characteristics of Brazil nut seeds.

The unsustainable harvest of forest resources in dry regions of Africa has contributed to forest degradation and increased the prices of forest resources in local markets. Many people in dry regions, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, have been harvesting forest resources to supplement food sources due to poor crop production as a result of erratic rainfall. This review seeks to explore the utilisation and contribution of forest resources to improving food security in the dry regions of Africa. Forest resources are highly utilised by poor resource farmers in rural areas as a means of poverty alleviation, income generation and to improve human livelihoods. Resources such as non-timber forest products (NTFPs) contribute to human nutrition, income generation, food sources and to improve living standards. NTFPs, such as honey, waxes and medicines, have been reported to contribute income in countries, such as Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, creating more opportunities for rural people to improve their living standards and reduce food insecurity. These resources contribute to hidden hunger though the utilisation of fruit, vegetables, honey, wild meat and edible worms, especially to the children under five years of age. Climate change has also created variability in the availability of forest resources in dry regions, and this has altered their contribution to human livelihoods and food security.

Nonresidential and mid- to high-rise multifamily residential structures in the United States currently use little wood per unit floor area installed, because earlier building codes lacked provisions for structural wood use in those types of buildings. However, revisions to the International Building Code allow for increased wood use in the form of mass timber, as structural and fire safety concerns have been addressed through new science-based design standards and through newly specified construction materials and measures. This study used multiple models to describe alternative futures for new construction, mass timber adoption rates, and the associated carbon benefits in higher than three-story buildings in the United States. The use of mass timber, in place of traditional constructions (i.e., structures dominated by concrete and steel), in projected new higher than three-story buildings was shown to provide combined carbon benefits (i.e., global warming mitigation benefits), including avoided embodied carbon emissions due to the substitution of non-wood alternatives and additional biogenic carbon storage in mass timber materials, of between 9.9 and 16.5 million t CO2e/yr spanning 50 years, 2020 to 2070. These carbon benefits equate to 12% to 20% of the total U.S. harvested wood products carbon storage for 2020. Future research is needed to understand how greater mass timber adoption leads to changes in forest product markets, land use, and total forest sector carbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative air ions (NAIs) are an important indicator of air cleanliness in an area, and play a vital role in promoting the psychological and physiological functions of the human body. However, there are few studies regarding the relationship between NAI concentration and various environmental factors in urban forests. Therefore, we established an observation point in the Zhuyu Bay Scenic Area in Yangzhou City and continuously measured concentration changes in NAIs for three years. At the same time, we also monitored 14 meteorological factors. A random forest model was used to determine the important environmental factors that affected changes in negative air ion concentrations from a non-comprehensive perspective, determine the prediction accuracy of the model, and screen out environmental factors that have a significant impact on negative air ions. The results showed that the environmental factor that NAIs were the most sensitive to in the Zhuyu Bay urban forest was humidity, followed by PM2.5, then wind direction, methane gas, and finally, temperature. Humidity was the most critical factor primarily because it directly affects the formation of NAIs in the environment and vegetation. We used big data to analyze the relationship between NAIs and environmental factors in forest parks. The results help deepen our understanding of NAIs characteristics and their application in urban forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperate forests, especially those in the densely populated regions of the world, are experiencing increasing levels of habitat degradation and biological impoverishment due to subtle but pervasive chronic anthropogenic disturbances including frequent and continuous grazing and extraction of non‐timber forest products. However, the effects of these subtle, chronic disturbances on the biodiversity‐productivity relationship have rarely been examined especially in forests at different development stages. Accordingly, this study explores how chronic anthropogenic disturbance affects the relationship between tree species diversity and forest productivity at different stand development stages in a large temperate forest region.We used the human footprint index as a proxy for chronic human disturbance. Hierarchical Bayesian models were employed to assess the effects of chronic human disturbance on the relationship between tree diversity and forest productivity across different stand age. Several measures of diversity were employed, including taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity.Forest productivity consistently increased with taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic biodiversity; these biodiversity facets were the main drivers of forest productivity compared to stand age, chronic human disturbance and climate. However, the magnitude at which productivity increases with the increments of taxonomic and functional diversity diminishes with the increasing chronic disturbance, especially in younger stands. The effects of phylogenetic diversity on productivity did not vary with chronic disturbance, regardless of stand age.Synthesis and applications: Chronic human disturbance in a large temperate forest region reduces the increase in community productivity due to different facets of biodiversity, especially in young forests. The evidence suggests that the mitigation of chronic human disturbance and the conservation of biodiversity will be effective in sustaining essential ecosystem functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Korea is one of the countries with a significant proportion of its national territory covered by forests. However, it remains unclear what management strategies for providing forest ecosystem services are preferred by the residents. This study explores South Korean residents' preferences for managing local forest ecosystem services, with a focus on how these preferences vary by forest ownership. Using the choice experiment method, this research identified residents' willingness to pay for seven key local forest ecosystem services, along with a tax measure. The findings indicate a strong preference for biodiversity as the primary ecosystem service in both national/public and private forests, with residents willing to pay an average of KRW 28,370 (USD 21.80) per household per year and KRW 31,670 (USD 24.34) per household per year, respectively, for its enhancement. Preferences varied depending on forest ownership, with noticeable differences in perceptions of services like water supply, non-timber forest product supply, carbon storage, and recreation. Based on forest ownership, these variations in perceptions highlight the importance of managing ecosystem services in line with national/public forests and private forests, which significantly influences residents' preferences. The study emphasizes the necessity of formulating ecosystem service management policies that account for the region's unique natural resource characteristics, aiming to maximize ecological benefits for the local population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical forests in the Pacific region contain many tree species that bear edible nuts (kernels). Canarium indicum (canarium) is an overstorey tree indigenous to Melanesia that produces commercially valuable kernels due to their pleasant taste and high oil content. This study characterises natural variation in fruit, nut-in-shell (NIS) and kernels of C. indicum across eight islands in Vanuatu. Significant tree-to-tree variation in fruit, NIS and kernel characteristics as well as kernel recovery (kernel:NIS) was found. This variation was largely due to tree-to-tree differences and little of this variation could be attributed to location. There were significant linear correlations among fruit, NIS and kernel traits, including kernel mass with fruit mass (R2 0.57) and kernel mass with NIS mass (R2 0.56). Therefore, trees suitable for cultivation may be screened based on fruit and nut characters before making final selections based on kernel mass. Trees sampled over two fruiting seasons showed that kernel mass and kernel number varied significantly between years for 63.6% and 25.9% of the trees respectively. However, by rank order, those trees that produced larger kernels in the first year of sampling, tended to also produce relatively larger kernels in the subsequent year. The implications of these results for the further domestication of the species for planting in commercial agroforestry systems is explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a slow-growing medicinal root native to eastern North America. Though it is possible to farm, wild ginseng can sell for twenty (or more) times as much as cultivated ginseng. Declining wild ginseng populations due to habitat loss and overharvesting has led to harvest restrictions, but strong demand for wild ginseng remains. One potential solution is "wild-simulated" ginseng, where ginseng is grown under conditions crafted to mimic a wild forest with the goal of producing roots that look wild. I contend, however, that despite the fact that wild-simulated ginseng grows in a habitat actively tended and monitored by humans, is nevertheless wild. I explore wildness as "productive unruliness" and show how wild-simulated ginseng actively crafts wildness through management to maintain if not add complexity, to foster unpredictability, or to facilitate stress. Furthermore, the habitat that wild-simulated ginseng growers are attempting to emulate—"wild" Appalachian woodlands dominated by an assemblage of "native" plants that pre-date the arrival of Europeans in the Americas—are themselves the product of human manipulation. In Appalachia, the boundaries between the wild and the cultivated are blurred. Wild-simulated ginseng is an example of how conservation goals can be achieved by crafting "wild" environments that are not untouched, pristine wildernesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overharvesting is a serious threat to many fish populations. High mortality and directional selection on body size can cause evolutionary change in exploited populations via selection for a specific phenotype and a potential reduction in phenotypic diversity. Whether the loss of phenotypic diversity that accompanies directional selection impairs response to environmental stress is not known. To address this question, we exposed three zebrafish selection lines to thermal stress. Two lines had experienced directional selection for (1) large and (2) small body size, and one was (3) subject to random removal of individuals with respect to body size (i.e. line with no directional selection). Selection lines were exposed to three temperatures (elevated, 34°C; ambient, 28°C; low, 22°C) to determine the response to an environmental stressor (thermal stress). We assessed differences among selection lines in their life history (growth and reproduction), physiological traits (metabolic rate and critical thermal max) and behaviour (activity and feeding behaviour) when reared at different temperatures. Lines experiencing directional selection (i.e. size selected) showed reduced growth rate and a shift in average phenotype in response to lower or elevated thermal stress compared with fish from the random‐selected line. Our data indicate that populations exposed to directional selection can have a more limited capacity to respond to thermal stress compared with fish that experience a comparable reduction in population size (but without directional selection). Future studies should aim to understand the impacts of environmental stressors on natural fish stocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key to the successful and sustainable utilisation of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) by local communities lies in understanding their perspectives on climate change and its effects on NTFP production. Furthermore, assessing their perceptions of the diverse uses and potential for the value addition of NTFPs is crucial for determining how these resources can enhance the well-being of local livelihoods. Although studies on climate change, value addition, and the multiple uses of NTFPs and their impact on local livelihoods have been conducted, locals' perceptions of these factors have not been fully explored. This study aims to assess various social factors, including education, gender, and religion, and their influence on locals' perceptions of the abovementioned factors. The research focused on five regions where NTFPs are prevalent in Ghana (the Western North, Bono, Ahafo, Ashanti, and Eastern regions). To investigate the influence of social factors on local perceptions of climate change, value addition, and the multiple values of NTFPs within rural communities, a total of 732 locals were randomly selected with a team of interviewers across these five regions in Ghana. Key informant interviews and focus group interview methods were used for the data collection. We applied a logistic regression model to assess the social factors and their influencing locals' perceptions of the mentioned variables. It was revealed that age, gender, education, and occupation did not significantly influence locals' perceptions of climate change. However, religion was found to influence locals' perceptions of climate change. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that gender and education strongly influenced locals' perceptions of value addition to NTFPs. In contrast, religion and constraints (related to time, finance, and skills) did not significantly influence locals' perceptions. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay among local perceptions, climate change, value addition, multiple uses of NTFPs, and the capacity of NTFPs to enhance the well-being of forest fringe communities. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive, tailor-made interventions that consider local perspectives and adhere to sustainable approaches, with the aim of optimising the positive impacts of NTFPs in poverty alleviation and overall community development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to livelihoods, development, and poverty reduction among the rural population has garnered growing interest in recent years. As communities living near forest areas heavily depend on NTFPs for their livelihoods, efforts to protect these resources must begin with an understanding of how the host communities relate to them. The study was conducted in the state of Tripura, India, located in the northeastern part of the country. A representative sample of 120 households was selected through the multistage sampling method. Data collected from the primary survey were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Male and female participation in NTFP activities was found to be 59.17% and 40.83%, respectively, with 45.93% employment in NTFPs and an annual family income of 31.30%. Household size, the gender of the household head, and employment in NTFPs all had a substantial impact on tribal families' NTFP income. As expected, the distance from the homestead to the nearest metallic road had a negative impact on tribal households' NTFP revenue. Larger household size improves the likelihood of tribal homes obtaining NTFPs. Stakeholders should prioritize technical and financial support programs for agricultural value addition, as well as conservation and commercialization support, to improve forest resource quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research is to compare the bending behaviour of non-glue-laminated timber beams and glulams by full-scale four-point bending tests. The focus is on the non-glue beams laminated by different materials or techniques and then to determine their bending stiffness and failure modes. The laminating efficiency of various materials or techniques is underlined. The manufacturing process concerning non-glue-laminated timber beams has to be determined. As structural elements with large dimensions, such components require adaptable laminating and producing techniques. While the beams composed of wooden dowels refer to the dowel-laminated timber (DLT), those made of self-tapping screws (STSs) can be simply related to nail-laminated timber (NLT) products. Then, a full-scale four-point bending test was carried out to appraise 26 laminated beams, including non-glue- and glue-laminated timber. The results of the test demonstrated that the material, the spacing and the angle of the transversal fasteners significantly influence bending behaviour. The bending stiffness of the beams laminated by STSs was about 7.86% higher than the value of the beams with wooden dowels, although the tendency of each pair of beams did not remain convergent. Reducing the interval of the fasteners can considerably increase the bending stiffness of the beams. Fasteners inserted at 45 degrees, or in a so-called V-type pattern, contribute to improving bending stiffness, and both wooden dowels and STSs reveal the same tendency. At this angle, STSs demonstrate better laminating efficiency than wooden dowels. The STS beams' bending stiffness was about 48.6% of that determined for glulams. On the contrary, in beams with 135-degree fasteners, or, namely, an A-type pattern, inserted fasteners possessed lower bending stiffness than in those with 90-degree fasteners. In addition to the considerable bending stiffness, the STS beams revealed a stable response as far as their load-deflection curves were concerned. A comparison of experimental and theoretical results contributes to verifying the feasibility as well as the weakness of two analytic methods. The predicting capacity of the associated equations needs to be improved, particularly for the withdrawal resistance and connecting effect of inclined STSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]