Estimating the potential of ecosystem service valorization from exclosures in the Tembien Highlands (Ethiopia)

Forest cover is key to tackle land degradation in relation to climate change.The North Ethiopian protected forests in exclosures deliver ecosystem services such as increased groundwater and carbon, and can deliver non-timber forest products (honey, incense) to the local population. Yet, the significant potential of carbon sequestration schemes and non-timber forest production remains largely untapped. After the success of a pilot project (EthioTrees), the aim of this SI project is to estimate the valorization potential of ecosystem services from exclosures in the Tembien Highlands. The project will analyse different ecosystem services and estimate their potential for involvement in voluntary carbon credit schemes. The project will also investigate whether sustainable essential oil production can increase the cash income of landless farmers. In so doing, the project will (i) give scope for future valorization of ecosystem services in many parts of north Ethiopia, and (ii) enhance the capacity of the Departments at Mekelle University, including their capacity to conduct participatory action research.