A roadmap towards a non-detriment finding for Pterocarpus erinaceus in Sierra Leone

Abstract

Trabajo Fin de Máster Propio. Tutoras: Dra. Margarita África Clemente Muñoz ; Isabel Camarena. Developing a roadmap towards a Non-Detriment Finding for Pterocarpus erinaceus in Sierra Leone is viewed as a critical and timely intervention for Sierra Leone and other range state who may want to conduct a NDF for the above-named species and other CITES's listed species. It should serve as a guide, steps and directive that could help in the development of a non-detriment finding for the sustainable harvesting and exportation of Pterocarpus erinaceus in accordance with recommendations under Review of Significant Trade (RST) process in line with Resolution Conf. 12.8 (Rev. CoP18). The goal of this research intervention was to develop a roadmap that can inform the development of a non-detriment findings on Pterocarpus erinaceus in Sierra Leone and other range state. This roadmap is applicable to any other CITES’ listed Species. To this end, the specific objectives were: 1. Conduct a systematic review of existing knowledge on ecology, trade volumes, threats, and legislation on P. erinaceus in Sierra Leone. 2. Establish progress and constraints in implementing recommendations for sustainable management of P. erinaceus from previous studies, and from CITES; and 3. Define a roadmap towards producing NDFs for P. erinaceus in Sierra Leone and improve compliance with CITES. To get the desired result expected, a diversified research tools and, methodologies were used including desk review, checklist and questionnaire design approach supported by field visit and observation of the areas where the species is found, review of data on trade volume from internet and CITES trade database. It further shifted to review of previous inventory work and maps to serve as guide in the selection of the study area. etc. Based upon the research findings and literature works reviewed, it was noted that the species in question is indeed harvested without reference to size, height etc. The roadmap shows the above component as missing links for a Non-Detriment finding for Pterocarpus erinaceus. No documented research work has ever been conducted in this country on this species to show the species spread, local use, threats, facing it. The only documented but unpublished academic research work that was conducted by Foray-Musa was not detailed enough to capture the species’ location, spread, characteristics or threats.