Threats to Chimpanzee Survival

Habitat loss is linked to the ever-increasing demands for land by the exploding human population and the commercial demands for natural resources. Africa currently has one of the highest growth rates in the world, with its population doubling every 24 years. And that population requires homes and livelihoods.

The forests that are chimpanzee habitat are cleared for living space, growing crops and grazing for domestic livestock. Wood is cut for firewood, charcoal, and building poles. Furthermore, forest concessions are sold to timber companies from the developed world, some of which practise clear cutting, turning forest habitats into desert.

Deforestation drives chimpanzees toward extinction as many populations become too fragmented to be viable.

What are the solutions?

Slowing population growth and moving to sustainable forest management are solutions. Neither is rapid or straightforward.

The Jane Goodall Institute's approach is to work with local communities in the areas of health, education and income generation as the first step in successfully protecting habitat for wild animals. These community-centred conservation initiatives now offer hope for both the people and the wildlife species of many African countries.