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Author(s): Wanyera Francis, Dr. Mutugi Chira Robert, Dr. Najma Dharani, Prof. Gichuki Nathaniel.

Volume/Issue: Volume 4 , Issue 4 (2021)

Abstract:

The purpose of the study was to determine the link between ecosystem degradation and regulating services. It was observed that as the ecosystem cover area decreased, the regulating services offered by the ecosystem also dwindled. The literature of the study covered the ecosystems and causes of degradation and different regulating services. The study was guided by three objectives and they included; to describe the carbon stock trends in Volcanoes National Park; to ascertain the temperature and rainfall patterns in VNP and to determine the soil erosion rates in and around VNP. The methodology of the study considered descriptive research design that was composed of both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Additionally, primary and secondary data were used. The study population was 52 households from two parishes and the sample of 44 households. The data collection tools were questionnaires and interviews while presentation was by use of figures and tables. The findings indicated that in the past three decades, as the population increased, the forest ecosystem area reduced and this affected the regulation of the amount of carbon stock. Also, the results revealed that the rainfall and temperature patterns fluctuate frequently due to the unregulated accumulated carbon dioxide and carbon in the atmosphere. The findings further showed that the rates of soil erosion increased as deforestation increases which led to increased soil erosion and runoff. As a result of soil erosion and runoff, the soil fertility decreased and it affected the crop harvests. In conclusion ecosystem degradation affected the regulation services which also affected the host community. It was recommended that deforestation should be stopped to improve regulating service.

Keywords:

Ecosystems, Degradation, Regulating, Services, Effects

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