prof.dr. PA (Pieter) Zuidema
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Tropical forest landscapes have changed dramatically over the last few decades. Forest conversion to agricultural fields has caused deforestation and forest fragmentation. A large share of the remaining forests are exploited for timber and non-timber forest products. In addition, tropical forests are also experiencing the effects of climatic and atmospheric change: rising temperature, nutrient deposition and increased atmospheric CO2 levels. Climatic changes predicted for the coming decades will greatly alter growing conditions of tropical forests and likely influence tree growth and forest dynamics.
In my research I evaluate how tropical forests will respond to these global changes, and how these changes affect their ecosystem services and conservation values. Specifically, I study the effects of exploitation, fragmentation and climate change on tree and forest ecology . I also teach about these topics and contribute to capacity building.