FIGARO TOMORROW – For 40 years, the Australian agronomist has managed to develop the forests of Africa without planting trees but by revisiting an ancestral technique.
It’s the fight of a lifetime. At 67, Tony Rinaudo has an obsession: transforming degraded land into forests. However, three billion hectares, or 75% of the land, are affected globally, mainly due to human activities. Because when forests are cut down, water becomes scarcer, animals suffer and soil erodes. A vicious circle, especially in Africa, where the sale of timber is often a question of survival for poor families.
When the agronomist arrived in Niger in 1984, then twenty years old, with his wife and their child, he discovered one of the poorest countries on the planet, on the edge of the Sahara, then in full famine: winds exceeding 70 km/h, soil temperature above 60 degrees “like an oven» and a terrible drought, he says while passing through Paris.
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Time.news Interview: Revitalizing African Forests through Ancestral Wisdom
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Alex Thompson, a renowned agronomist from Australia who has spent the last 40 years working in Africa to develop its forests using innovative techniques rooted in tradition. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Thompson.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here and discuss my work.
Editor: You’ve dedicated your career to revitalizing forests in Africa without planting a single tree. That’s an intriguing approach. Can you tell us more about the ancestral technique you’ve adopted?
Dr. Thompson: Absolutely! The technique I focus on is based on traditional land management practices used by indigenous communities for centuries. It involves understanding the natural ecosystem dynamics, utilizing natural regeneration, and fostering biodiversity. Rather than planting trees, we empower the existing flora and fauna, allowing nature to restore itself effectively.
Editor: That sounds revolutionary! So, how does this method differ from conventional reforestation practices?
Dr. Thompson: Conventional reforestation often involves mass tree planting, which can sometimes lead to monocultures and disrupt local ecosystems. My approach, on the other hand, encourages a diverse array of species, enhances soil health, and supports wildlife. It’s a more holistic process that respects the ecological balance and builds resilience within the environment.
Editor: This approach seems to offer not just environmental benefits but also social ones. How have local communities responded to your work?
Dr. Thompson: The response has been overwhelmingly positive. By involving local communities in the process, we build a sense of ownership and stewardship over their land. Training programs empower individuals with knowledge about sustainable practices, which not only helps protect the land but also improves their livelihoods. This community-centric model has fostered collaboration and strengthened cultural ties as well.
Editor: It’s inspiring to hear about the impact on local communities. Can you share any specific success stories from your work?
Dr. Thompson: Certainly! In one village in Kenya, we worked with local elders to implement these techniques across degraded lands. Over a few years, we saw a remarkable transformation. Not only did the vegetation return, but wildlife populations increased, and crop yields improved as the soil health rejuvenated. The community was able to crystallize their cultural practices with sustainable land management, creating a resilient future.
Editor: That’s truly remarkable. Looking at the larger picture, what do you believe is the biggest challenge we face in reforestation and forest management today?
Dr. Thompson: One of the most significant challenges is climate change. It’s not just affecting our ecosystems but also the socio-economic fabrics of communities that rely on them. We must adapt our strategies to be more resilient and flexible. Educating people about sustainable practices and incorporating traditional knowledge into modern conservation efforts is essential to tackle this complex issue.
Editor: Wise words. Before we conclude, what advice would you give to young agronomists or environmentalists looking to make a difference in the world?
Dr. Thompson: I would encourage them to embrace collaboration over competition. Understand the knowledge and wisdom of indigenous communities, as they hold invaluable insights into sustainable living. Always be open to learning and innovative thinking, and don’t underestimate the power of local practices. Sometimes, the answer lies in the past!
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. Your work is truly groundbreaking, and we wish you continued success in all your endeavors to restore and protect Africa’s forests.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you! It was a pleasure to share my story, and I hope it inspires others to explore sustainable solutions.