Mixed methods to assess Sacred Forest management practices in Guinean Forest of West Africa biodiversity hotspot

According to the FAO's Global Forest Resources Assessment 2020, the planet has lost 178 million hectares of forest since 1990. Africa had the highest annual rate of net forest loss, 3.9 million hectares in 2010–2020, due to human activities. Sacred Forests (SFs) are unique ecosystems, deeply intertwined with religious or traditional belief systems, key historical events, and specific burial practices. Sacred forests represent a holistic approach to the sustainable management of forests and are one response to the accelerating biodiversity loss. This research aims to describe how Sacred Forests in the Guinean forest of West Africa hotspot (Guinea, Senegal, and Benin) have been preserved, comparing their ecological dynamics with other forest management models. The case studies apply mixed methodologies to observe forest dynamics and survey Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK). Satellite remote sensing series help to diachronically monitor ecosystem dynamics. Interactive qualitative methodologies include socio-anthropological research, questionnaires, participant observations, and interviews with stakeholders of Sacred Forests' socio-ecological systems. The results show that the case studies are not subjected to the same anthropogenic pressures as other surrounding forests. Leveraging TEK and integrating scientific ecological knowledge (SEK) on SFs' socio-ecological systems, the paper advocates for a more holistic and inclusive approach to understanding and managing forests. Recognizing that local communities have long-standing relationships and deep-rooted knowledge systems can contribute significantly to sustainable forest management and conservation efforts.