Analysing plausible futures from past patterns of land change in West Burkina Faso

Finally, we analysed several prospective scenarios to assess the impacts of i) different population evolutions (normal demographic growth, emigrations and demographic regulation), ii) the implementation of protected areas in each village, iii) an intensification of farming systems. Two possible solutions for reducing natural vegetation clearance in the region are discussed: Emigration to other regions or a demographic regulation accompanied with an intensification of agricultural systems. However, the question remains whether such changes can be accomplished rapidly enough to abate the pressing natural vegetation decrease threat and to maintain an acceptable livelihood in the region.