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The direct-use value of urban tree non-timber forest products to household income in poorer suburbs in South African towns

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  • Kaoma, Humphrey
  • Shackleton, Charlie M.

Abstract

Valuation of the contribution of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to household incomes has been well researched in the rural and remote areas of the developing world. In comparison, there has been little investigation of the contribution of NTFPs in urban areas and amongst the urban poor. This paper reports results from a survey of 450 households across three towns on the use and value of tree NTFPs collected by households in the poorer areas from their own homesteads, open spaces within towns and at the urban periphery. Collection (and purchase) of tree NTFPs was widespread, especially of firewood and fruits. The ratio collected from homesteads relative to other urban spaces differed between products and the amount required. Overall, approximately 20% of household income was derived from urban tree NTFPs. The highest contribution (33%) was amongst the poorest sectors represented by mostly recent migrants to towns who were living in informal settlements whilst trying to establish a foothold in the urban economy. In the formal housing areas the contribution was at least 14%, which has been overlooked by standard income surveys in urban areas.

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  • Kaoma, Humphrey & Shackleton, Charlie M., 2015. "The direct-use value of urban tree non-timber forest products to household income in poorer suburbs in South African towns," Forest Policy and Economics, Elsevier, vol. 61(C), pages 104-112.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:forpol:v:61:y:2015:i:c:p:104-112
    DOI: 10.1016/j.forpol.2015.08.005
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    5. Ward, Catherine D. & Shackleton, Charlie M., 2016. "Natural Resource Use, Incomes, and Poverty Along the Rural–Urban Continuum of Two Medium-Sized, South African Towns," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 78(C), pages 80-93.
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    7. Charlie Shackleton & Gisele Sinasson & Opeyemi Adeyemi & Vusumzi Martins, 2022. "Fuelwood in South Africa Revisited: Widespread Use in a Policy Vacuum," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(17), pages 1-14, September.
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