“Non-timber forest products and climate change adaptation among forest dependent communities in Bamboko forest reserve, southwest region of Cameroon”

Abstract Background Forests are naturally endowed to combat climate change by protecting people and livelihoods as well creating a base for sustainable economic social development. But this natural mechanism is often hampered anthropogenic activities. It therefore imperative take measures that environmentally not only mitigation but also its adaptation. This study was carried out assess the role of Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) an adaptation strategy based on local perception cope with impacts among forest-dependent communities around Bamkoko Forest Reserve in South West Region Cameroon. Methods Datasets were collected through household questionnaires (20% population each village constitute site sample), participatory rural appraisal techniques, transect walks 4 corners Bamboko square sample 25 m 2 × identified record NTFPs reserve,and direct field observations.). Both qualitative quantitative (statistics) methods used analyze data. Results A total 18 plant species being harvested Non Timber Products residents Reserve. The majority respondents (88%) perceived there has been patterns due increased temperatures unpredictable rainfalls. Eru most affected standard deviation 1.66799 agricultural crops livelihood activity 1.20459 more than one these adverse effects Conclusions concluded increasing crop production other livelihoods, non-timber still play safety net assist communities. need ensure harvesting, improved processing, access markets cannot be over-emphasized.