asealex. thesis report-2014 - edited

Perception of the public on the status of ES at KELLE town June 13, 2014

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EETTHHIIOOPPIIAANN CCIIVVIILL SSEERRVVIICCEE UUNNIIVVEERRSSIITTYY

IINNSSTTIITTUUTTEE OOFF UURRBBAANN DDEEVVEELLOOPPMMEENNTT SSTTUUDDIIEESS

DDEEPPAARRTTMMEENNTT OOFF UURRBBAANN EENNVVIIRROONNMMEENNTT AANNDD

CCLLIIMMAATTEE CCHHAANNGGEE MMAANNAAGGEEMMEENNTT

PPeerrcceeppttiioonn ooff tthhee PPuubblliicc oonn tthhee SSttaattuuss ooff EEccoossyysstteemm SSeerrvviicceess aatt

KKeellllee TToowwnn,, SSNNNNPPRRSS

By

Asaminew Alemayehu

ID No: UECM-0005-05

Under the Supervision of

Mr. Alemayehu Agizew

A Thesis Report Submitted to the Department of Urban Environment and Climate

Change Management Masters Program, Ethiopian Civil Service University, in

Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of a Masters Degree in

Urban Environment and Climate Change Management

June 13th, 2014

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia


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Declarations

I, Asaminew Alemayehu Kotcha, Registration Number/I.D. UECM-0005-05, do hereby

declare that this thesis is my original work and that it has not been submitted partially; or

in full, by any other person for an award of a degree in any other University/Institution.

Name of Participant………………………… Signature………... Date……………

This Thesis has been submitted for examination with my approval as University

supervisor.

Name of Advisor……………………...…………. Signature………… Date…………


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Dedication

This thesis is dedicated to my father, for his kindness and devotion, and for his endless

support in my endeavour; his concern more with the needs and wishes of my success than

him even his life will always be remembered.


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APPROVAL

The undersigned certify that they have read and hereby recommend to the Ethiopian Civil

Service University to accept the Thesis submitted by Asaminew Alemayehu Kotcha, and

entitled “AAsssseessss tthhee PPuubblliicc ppeerrcceeppttiioonn oonn tthhee SSttaattuuss ooff EEccoossyysstteemm SSeerrvviicceess aatt KKeellllee

TToowwnn,, SSNNNNPPRRSS”, in partial fulfillment of a Masters Degree in Urban Environment and

Climate Change Management.

Name of Supervisor ……………………………………… Signature…………..…….

Date………………………

Name of Internal Examiner……………………………… Signature…….…..……….

Date…………...…………

Name of External Examiner…………………………. Signature………..……….

Date…………..…………

Name of Head of Department…………………………. Signature………………….

Date………………………


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Abstract

Urbanization happens because of the increase in the extent and density of urban areas.

The continuous development of 'Kelle' Town allows an increased rate of the migrants

from the nearby rural 'kebeles' which exerts stress on the natural ecosystem services such

as provisioning, regulating, cultural services and supporting services. This paper

emphasizes on the assessment of the public perception on the status of ecosystem services

and to suggest an alternative option to widen the public awareness about the benefits

obtained from natural ecosystem services. Based on the descriptive research design, this

research applied both qualitative and quantitative approaches. A household survey was

conducted Primary data had been collected through semi-structured questionnaires, in-

depth interviews, and personal observation while the secondary data were collected from

different written and documented sources. Primary data collected from sampled

household heads were processed and analyzed by descriptive data analysis method.

Consequently, the major findings of the study are: The ability of the ecosystem to provide

conditions for food, fibber, etc; to regulate local climate, erosion, etc; to act as

recreational, aesthetic value, etc and to support nutrient cycling, maintenance of soil

structure and fertility etc is become degraded 16 ecosystem services including food,

fibber, fresh water, natural medicine, aesthetic, existence, recreational value, etc are

available in Kelle town. Ecosystem services available in the town are become changed

and diminished due to the human activities largely to meet the rapidly growing demands

of the alarmingly increasing urban population and to achieve the town’s economic

development goals. Promotion of urban greenery, integrating ecosystem services into

spatial planning and urban management, and aware public to the benefits of ecosystem

and empowering decision makers’ awareness are the suggested options.

Key words: Ecosystem, Urbanization, Provisioning, Regulating, Cultural, Supporting,

Services, Process


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Acknowledgement

Above all, I thank Almighty God for always with me in all my endeavors and giving me

endurance to complete my study.

I would like to thank various government institutions in Kele town and staffs for their

contribution in giving me the required data and information, particularly Kele town

Municipality, Kele town water services office, Amaro Special Woreda Health office,

Office of Trade and Industry, Office of Mines and Energy, and Agriculture office.

Nobody has been more important to me in the pursuit of this thesis than the members of

my family. I would like to thank my parents, whose love and guidance are with me in

whatever I pursue. They are the ultimate role models. Most importantly, I wish to thank

my loving and supportive wife, sister Bereket, and my mother and my three younger

sisters’ wonderful sisters, who provide unending inspiration.


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Table of Content

Content Page

Declarations ............................................................................................................................................................. i

Dedication .............................................................................................................................................................. ii

APPROVAL .......................................................................................................................................................... iii

Abstract ................................................................................................................................................................. iv

Acknowledgement .................................................................................................................................................. v

List of tables .......................................................................................................................................................... ix

List of Figures ........................................................................................................................................................ x

List of appendices .................................................................................................................................................. xi

ACRONYMS ....................................................................................................................................................... xii

CHAPTER ONE..................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Background ................................................................................................................................................. 1

1.3 Problem Statement ...................................................................................................................................... 3

1.4 Objectives.................................................................................................................................................... 4 1.4.1 General Objective .......................................................................................................................... 4

1.4.2 Specific Objectives ........................................................................................................................ 4

1.5 Definition of Key Concepts ......................................................................................................................... 5

1.6 Significance of the Research ....................................................................................................................... 6

1.7 Scope of the Study ....................................................................................................................................... 6

1.8 Description of the Study Area ..................................................................................................................... 7

1.9 Limitations of the Study .............................................................................................................................. 8

CHAPTER TWO .................................................................................................................................................. 10

2. LITERATURE REVIEW ............................................................................................................................... 10

2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 10

2.2 Theoretical Literature Review .................................................................................................................. 10

2.2.1 Ecosystem ........................................................................................................................................... 10

2.2.2 Urban Ecosystem ......................................................................................................................... 10

2.2.3 Ecosystem Functions ................................................................................................................... 12

2.2.4 Ecosystem Services ...................................................................................................................... 12


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2.2.5 Conditions and trends of Ecosystem Services ............................................................................. 13

2.2.6Changes Urban Ecosystem Services ........................................................................................................ 14

2.2.4 Ecosystem Approach .......................................................................................................................... 15

2.2.5 Importance of Ecosystem Approach ................................................................................................... 16

2.3 Environmental problems in developing countries ..................................................................................... 17

2.3.2 Landscape Degradation ................................................................................................................ 17

2.3.3 Water Scarcity.............................................................................................................................. 18 2.3.4 Water Pollution ............................................................................................................................ 18

2.4 Empirical Research Review ...................................................................................................................... 18

2.4 Research Gap ............................................................................................................................................ 19

2.5 Conceptual Framework ............................................................................................................................ 21

CHAPTER THREE .............................................................................................................................................. 22

3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................................ 22

3.1 Research Design ................................................................................................................................... 22

3.2 Methods of Data Collection ...................................................................................................................... 22

3.3 Sampling Technique .................................................................................................................................. 23

3.3.1 Population or Universe ................................................................................................................ 23

3.3.2 The Sampling Frame .................................................................................................................... 23

3.3.3 Sampling Unit .............................................................................................................................. 23

3.3.4 Sample Size ................................................................................................................................. 23

3.4 Source of Data .......................................................................................................................................... 24

3.4.1 Primary Data Sources .................................................................................................................. 24 3.4.2 Secondary data sources ................................................................................................................ 24

3.5 Data Analysis ............................................................................................................................................ 25

3.6 Data Presentation ..................................................................................................................................... 25

3.7 Ethical Consideration ............................................................................................................................... 25

Chapter Four ......................................................................................................................................................... 26

4. Data Analysis, Interpretation and Presentation ................................................................................................ 26

4.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 26

4.2 Response Rate ........................................................................................................................................... 26

4.3 Household demographic composition ....................................................................................................... 26

4.4 Results of the Study ................................................................................................................................... 29

4.4.1 Public Opinions on the current conditions and trends of Ecosystem ........................................... 29

4.4.2 Perception of the Public on the Ecosystem Types, Source and function ..................................... 33

4.4.3 Public Perception on the Changes observed in the Ecosystem Services and Drivers .................. 40

4.4.3.1 The public perception on the availability of ecosystem services ................................................. 40


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4.4.3.2 Public Perception on the Quality of Ecosystem Services ................................................................. 46

4.5 Interpretation and Discussion ................................................................................................................... 52

4.6.1 Public Opinion on the Conditions and Trends of Ecosystem in Kelle ......................................... 52

4.6.2 The Perception of the public on the Types, Sources and Functions of Ecosystem services ........ 56

4.6.3 Public perception on the Changes Observed in Ecosystem Services and its Drivers ................... 59

CHAPTER FIVE .................................................................................................................................................. 62

3. Conclusion and Recommendations ............................................................................................................... 62

5.1 Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................ 62

5.1.1 Opinion of the Public on the Conditions and Trends of Ecosystem in Kelle ............................... 62

5.1.2 Public perception on Types, Sources and Functions of Ecosystem Services ............................... 63

5.1.3 Public Perception on the Changes Observed in the ecosystem Services and its Drivers ............. 64

5.2 Recommendations/Suggestions ................................................................................................................. 64

References ............................................................................................................................................................ 66


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List of tables

Table 1: Group of Ecosystem Services .................................................................................12

Table 2: Response rate of the study .......................................................................................26

Table 3: The household heads' demographic composition ....................................................27

Table 4: Public perception on the current forest ecosystem ..................................................32

Table 5: Public perception on the current status of water and air quality of the town ..........33

Table 6: The identified ecosystem services in and around Kelle town ..................................38

Table 7: Public opinion in the ecosystem services changes in Kelle town ............................41

Table 8: Public opinion in the changes of ecosystem service quality at Kelle town .............48

Table 9: Summary of the public perception on ecosystem services availability and quality 56

Table 10: The public perception on the changes in ecosystem services and its drivers ........60


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List of Figures

Fig. 1 Map of the study area .................................................................................................8

Figure 2 Conceptual framework ............................................................................................21

Figure 3: public opinion on the existing conditions of land use type ....................................30

Figure 4: Public perception on the existing condition of land covers ..................................31

Figure 5: The diseases prevalence due to the changes on the water and air quality ..............32

Figure 6: Public perception on the ecosystem service types .................................................34

Figure 7: Public perception on the source of ecosystem services to ‘Kelle’ Town ...............35

Figure 8: Public perception on the functions of ecosystem services ..................................... 36

Figure 9: Perception of the public to the indicators of ecosystem services changing ...........37

Figure 10: The availability level of ecosystem services at Kelle town ..................................55


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List of appendices

Appendices-I: Research questionnaire

Appendices-I: Interview guideline

Appendices-I: Check list


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ACRONYMS

ASWHO Amaro Special Woreda Health Office

CAVSARTENRC Committee on Assessing and Valuing the Services of Aquatic and

Related Terrestrial Ecosystems, National Research Council

CBD Convention on Biological Diversity

COHRE Centre on Housing Rights and Evictions

CSA Central Statistical Agency

DPBPMESWP Development Plan and Budget Preparation, Monitoring and

Evaluation Sub Work Process

ECSU Ethiopian Civil Service University

Eds Editors

G.C Gregorian calendar

GHGs Greenhouse gases

IBCR Institute of Biodiversity Conservation and Research

Km2 Squared Kilo meters

MEA Millennium Ecosystem Assessment

nd No date

PISCES Partnerships Involving Stakeholders in the Celtic Sea Ecosystem

SCBD Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity

SNNPRS Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Regional State

SPSS Statistical Package for Social Sciences

Spp Species

TVET Technical and Vocational Education and Training

UK United Kingdom

UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and Development

UNEP United Nations Environmental Program

UNCHS United Nations Centre for Human Settlements

UNFPA United Nations Fund for Population

USA United States of America

WRI World Resource Institute

WRC World Research Centre


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CHAPTER ONE

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This paper assesses the public perception on the status of ecosystem services at ‘Kelle’

town, Amaro special woreda in Southern Nations, Nationalities and People’s Regional

State. The aim of this study is to assess the perception of the public on the status of

ecosystem services and the changes they have observed in the ecosystem services of the

study area. The investigation focuses on ecosystem services upon which the study

households depend, looking at the challenges of these ecosystem services. In the first

section, the paper is about background of the study, statement of the problem, objective

of the study, research question, significance of the study, scope of the study, description

of the study area, and limitations of the study. In the second chapter, the review literature

which includes the conceptual framework was discussed. In the third section, research

methodology which includes research design, methods of data collection, sample frame,

sample size, study population, sources of data, data analysis and presentation. In the

fourth chapter, data analysis and interpretations are discussed and the fifth chapter, deals

about the conclusion of the findings and recommendations to the gaps identified.

1.2 Background

An ecosystem is a dynamic complex of plant, animal, and microorganism communities

and the nonliving environment, interacting as a functional unit. Humans are an integral

part of ecosystems. A well-defined ecosystem has strong interactions among its

components and weak interactions across its boundaries. A useful ecosystem boundary is

the place where a number of discontinuities coincide, for instance in the distribution of

organisms, soil types, drainage basins, or depth in a water body. At a larger scale,

regional and even globally distributed ecosystems can be evaluated based on a

commonality of basic structural units (MEA, 2005). Urban ecosystems are especially

important in providing services with direct impact on human health and security such as

air purification, noise reduction, urban cooling, and run-off mitigation. Cities are

interconnected globally through political, economic, and technical systems, and also

through the Earth’s biophysical life-support systems. Cities also have disproportionate


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environmental impacts at the local, regional, and global scales well beyond their borders,

yet they provide critical leadership in the global sustainability agenda. Although

urbanized areas cover only a small portion of the surface of the planet, they account for a

vast share of anthropogenic impacts on the biosphere. Still, the impacts of urbanization

on biodiversity and ecosystems as well as the potential benefits from ecosystem

restoration in urban areas remain poorly understood (Elmqvist T. et al. (Eds), 2013).

According to Barnett (2001) cited in Zewa G. the urbanization process increases the

environmental degradation, which is resulted when the supply of the natural resources of

direct use to human decreases and resources scarcity occur, the accumulation of waste

emitted from dispersed sources and the biospheres decreasing capacity to absorb the

wastes.

As United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP, 1997) cited in Timothy & Beathey

(Ed) (1994) all the world major cities suffer from poor air quality. However urbanization

is growing throughout the world, the growth of cities is more rapid in the developing

countries especially Africa where annual growth rate is 1.6% compared to 0.8% in the

developed countries (Leulseged et al., 2006). According to the United Nations report

(2003) cited in Leulseged et al., 2006 the process of urbanization in the developing

countries, especially Africa is inexorable and rapid urbanization presents one of the

greatest challenges to human security and sustainable development.

Alteration in land use is likely to be a major driver of global changes in the distribution of

vital ecosystem services. Urbanization will not only influence the potential supply and

use of ecosystem services, but also the number, behaviour and distribution of potential

beneficiaries (residents, animals) of those services. This change in the distribution of

populations relative to the locations of ecosystem service supplies could further reduce

the per capita supply or increase the costs of service provision. During this process of

land conversion, their influences on ecological systems have often been neglected. The

degradation of natural ecological systems due to land use change, however, has become

severe, and may require immediate attentions from urban planners and local governments

(Elmqvist T. et al. (Eds), 2013). According to Leulseged et al. (2006) the increase in

built-up areas in Addis Ababa city is horizontally expanding consuming the crop land,


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forest and grassland and this decline the sustainability of the provisioning, regulating, and

supporting services of the ecological resources.

Urbanization process cleans the way to increase the people's vulnerability to the

environmental hazards (especially to flood). In present case the selected study area is

close to naturally protected and preserved plains, forests, mountains and national park, so

that the researcher is concentrated on the assessment of the public perception on the

status of natural ecosystem services.

1.3 Problem Statement

Urbanization in Ethiopia and many other developing counties is accompanied by rapid

urban sprawl, resulting in a transformation of agricultural, forest, rural villages /suburb in

to urban or built-up area. Rapid urbanization results in the uncontrolled expansion of

cities or towns which leads to the loss of natural vegetation, open space and a general

decline in the extent and connectivity of wet lands and wild life habitats of communities

within and the fringes of cities and towns. In this process, natural areas previously

uninhabited or undeveloped, areas used as parks and those reserved for urban agriculture

are converted to industrial, commercial and residential purposes due to population

growth, which destroys the natural ecosystem (Leulseged et al., 2006).

According to Van Dijik (2008) cited in Elmqvist T. et al. (Eds), 2013 rapid urbanization

in Ethiopia will significantly affect the natural ecosystem, largely through increased

levels of emission from motor vehicle, power generation and reduction in vegetation

cover due to residential and industrial expansions. In fact, cities and towns consume

natural resources like land, water, trees, minerals and others within and outside of the city

or town and generate waste which is often disposed outside their boundaries. This process

makes urban areas the generator of ecosystem services disservices 1 . An ecosystem

services refers to the benefits that people get from nature for instance fresh water, timber,

climate regulation, recreation, and aesthetic values, and air and water purification. In

1 Disservices: functions of ecosystems that are perceived as negative for human well-

being.


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order to satisfy the ever-increasing demand of land it has become mandatory to affect the

natural ecosystem (World Research Institute, 1992).

The continuous development of urbanization at 'Kelle' Town allows an increased rate of

the migrants from the nearby rural 'kebeles'. These activities made the town suitable for

the increased expansion of processing industries, especially the dry and wet coffee

processing industries, increasing number of vehicles for transportation purpose, and other

urban public utilities which cumulatively has a stress on the ecosystem services such as

provisioning, regulating, cultural and supporting services. This continuous stress on the

ecosystem services is becoming a serious problem for both the wild habitats and the

human health through influencing the ecosystem services. Now a day, the town is

increasing horizontally towards the undeveloped areas nearby the town and the practices

of development is not taking into account the natural ecosystem. There is also lack of

information or awareness on the ecosystem services in the public as well as the decision

makers.

1.4 Objectives

1.4.1 General Objective

The overall objective of this study is to assess the perception of the public on the status of

ecosystem services and on the changes they have observed in the ecosystem services of

the Kelle Town.

1.4.2 Specific Objectives

1. To examine the opinion of the public on the condition and trends of ecosystem

services in the town;

2. To assess the perception of the public on the types, sources and functions of

ecosystem services of the town

3. To assess the public opinion on the drivers of ecosystem services changes in their

town.


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1.5 Definition of Key Concepts

Ecosystem: Ecosystem is a community of living organisms in conjunction with the

nonliving components of their environment interacting as a system (Ranganathan J. et al.,

2008).

Ecosystem services: Ecosystem services are the benefits that people get from nature.

Examples include fresh water, timber, climate regulation, recreation, and aesthetic values

(Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005).

Provisioning services: Provisioning services are the good or products that the people

obtain from natural ecosystems for example: food, fibber, biomass fuel, fresh water,

genetic resources, biochemical, natural medicines and pharmaceuticals (Ranganathan J. et

al., 2008).

Regulating services: Regulating services are the benefits obtained from ecosystem's

control of natural processes. These are like air quality regulation, climate regulation,

water regulation, erosion regulation, waste assimilation, disease regulation, pest

regulation and natural hazard regulation (Ranganathan J. et al., 2008).

Cultural services: Supporting services are the non-material benefits people obtain from

ecosystem services. For example: aesthetic values, existence values, and recreational

values (Ranganathan J. et al., 2008).

Supporting services: Supporting services are the underlying processes that are necessary

for the production of all other ecosystems. These are services like nutrient cycling,

maintenance of soil structure and fertility, primary production, photosynthesis and water

cycling (Ranganathan J. et al., 2008).

Urbanization: Urbanization refers to a growth in the proportion of a population living in

urban areas and the further physical expansion of already existing urban centres (Samson,

2009; Alaci, 2010 cited in Leulseged et al., 2006)


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1.6 Significance of the Research

The result of this study has provided an important input for the urban development policy

makers, practitioners of urban development policy, urban planners, designers and urban

managers. It also has an important role in indicating the right direction to the local

administration and Kelle Town Municipality about how can they achieve both urban

development and conservation of natural ecosystem in sustainable manner. It also

provided basic information for the high level educational institutions such as Hawassa

University, Bule Hora University, Arbaminch University, Dilla University and other

TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) to produce future further

advanced researches on the issue and produce a step wise change on the management of

urban environment.

1.7 Scope of the Study

Conceptually, the study was all about the assessment of the public perception on the

status of ecosystem services at Kelle town. Although it was recognized that the technical

aspects were important for the understanding of the impacts of the urbanization on

ecosystem services concept, the scope of this study did not allowed the researcher to

consider the technical aspects (mapping the impact of urbanization on ecosystem by

using GIS software) of the urbanization process. The geographical scope of the study was

confined to the two ‘Kebeles’ of Kelle town (namely 01 and 02 kebele), the capital of

Amaro Special Woreda. Based on the 2010 census result of CSA the Town has a total

population about 11,009 or 2,342 households. Topographically, the town is located at a

foot of Amaro mountain chains-a well known mountain chain in the region. The soil of

the hill immediately near the town is very fragile coarse sandy (Zewa G. thesis report,

2013). The mountain chain provides different ecosystem services not only to the settlers

within the mountain chain ecology but also the town residents are beneficiaries of the

services provided by this ecosystem.


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1.8 Description of the Study Area

Amaro special woreda is one of the 8 special woredas in Southern Nations Nationalities

and Peoples Regional State (SNNPRS). It is located to the south east of the region.

Astronomically, the woreda is located between 50 6’ 2’’ and 60 N latitude, and 370 55’

and 3809’ E longitude (SNNPRS Regional Statistical Abstract, 2007). The elevation of

the woreda ranges from 1200-3600 meters above sea level. The total area of the woreda

estimates 1,422.16 square kilo meter (Km2). It is bordered by BurJi, Konso and Derashe

special woredas from south, by Arbaminch zuria woreda, Lake Chamo, and Lake Abaya

from west, and by Oromia Regional State from east and north. The rainfall amounts 801-

1000 mm per annum. The average temperature ranges from 120C -25 0C. Agro-

ecologically, 30% of the total area lies under Dega (highland).The Weyna dega

(midland), where Kelle Town (about 840 hectares or 8.4 square kilo meters in area) is

situated, and Kola (lowland) constitute 38% and 32% respectively. The woreda has 33

rural Kebeles and two urban kebeles under Kele municipality. According to the National

Census (CSA, 2010) the woreda has a total population of 167,379 (84,411 male and

82,968 female) of which 11,009 (6,038 male and 4,971 female) were living in Kelle

Town. Amaro Special Woreda has a population density of 117.7 people per square kilo

meters of which 6.58% were urban inhabitants, but the population density of Kelle Town

currently estimated as 1,310 people per square kilo meters. Kelle town, which occupy

about 840 hectare (Ha) in area-the capital of Amaro special Woreda is one of the oldest

towns in SNNPRS. The Town was established in 1941 as the administration sit of

‘Koore’ people. The town is located to the east part of the woreda. It is located about 206

km to south of Hawassa- the regional capital- and about 478 km to south of Addis Ababa-

that of the nation. The map below is the current shape of Kelle Town.


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Fig. 1 Map of the study area (source: SNNPR map).

1.9 Limitations of the Study

The major limitations of the study were that the availability of the secondary data

sources- lack of organized relevant documents, reports and videos. The willingness of the

officials and expertise of the concerned government institutions because the time of the

data collection was at the critical time for the officials and expertise to be busy by the

agricultural scaling-up programme. It was so painful during primary data collection to

deal with some respondents and interviewing because the issue under the study was

different or new for the study area and the willingness of the key informants and some

respondents. The other limitation was the shortage of money to run the data collection

activity as it was planned.

1.10 Organization of the Thesis

The thesis has comprised of five chapters. Chapter one is about the introduction which is

a brief and precise presentation of the thesis. This chapter has the background of the

study, problem statement, research objective, conceptual definition, significance of the

study, scope of the study, description of the study area, and limitation of the study. The

second chapter is the literature review, which connects the study with the theoretical

background of the concepts under study. The third chapter is the methodology, which

aims to describe the overall procedure of the study. The fourth chapter deals with the data


9

analysis, interpretation and presentation. The fifth chapter is about the conclusion based

on the findings and recommendations.


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CHAPTER TWO

2. LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

This chapter includes different literatures which are important to the study. Hence, the

conceptual framework which includes key concepts and variables was reviewed through

different theoretical and empirical literatures.

2.2 Theoretical Literature Review

2.2.1 Ecosystem

An ecosystem can be defined as ‘‘a set of interacting species and their local, non-

biological environment functioning together to sustain life’’ (Moll and Petit, 1994 cited

in Nsiah K., 2003). The urban ecosystems can be portrayed as a form of ecological

infrastructure, often called “green infrastructure”, providing a variety of ecosystem

services for humans. The term ecological infrastructure captures the role that water and

vegetation in or near the built environment play in delivering ecosystem services at

different spatial scales (building, street, neighbourhood, and region). It includes all ‘green

and blue spaces’ (urban ecosystems) that may be found in urban and peri-urban areas,

including parks, cemeteries, gardens and yards, urban allotments, urban forests, single

trees, wetlands, streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds (SCBD, 2012).

2.2.2 Urban Ecosystem

Within the urban ecosystem there are a number of goods and services have been defined.

Costanza et al (1997) identified 17 groups of ecosystem services as shown in table 1.

Urban ecosystems are especially important in providing services with direct impact on

human health and security such as air purification, noise reduction, urban cooling, and

run-off mitigation. According to Bolund and Hunhammar, 1999, urban ecosystems have

been understood to work in a number of different ways. They are viewed as a single

aerial unit containing interacting species and their local, non-biological environment

functioning together to sustain life. This unit has been then been further decomposed into


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several individual ecosystems, e.g., parks and lakes. Indeed, the term urban ecosystem

has often been used strictly as pertaining to the natural green and blue areas in the city.

Cities are linked through their ecological interdependencies, as the activities in some

cities, largely those of the developed world, are increasingly impacting ecosystems

elsewhere. The urban ecosystem is thus part of a set of interdependent ecosystems all

essential for the adequate support of human life. To illustrate the necessity of

interdependency, Douglas (1981) turns to the fresh food markets in the Third World. He

observes how cities such as Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur have intensified agriculture in

the areas immediately adjacent to the cities, and also developed longer and longer supply

lines for essential foodstuffs with urban growth.

Table 1: Group of ecosystem services identified by Costanza et al (1997)

Ecosystem Service Ecosystem functions

Gas regulation Regulation of atmospheric chemical composition.

Climate

regulation

Regulation of global temperature, precipitation, and other

biologically mediated climatic processes at global or local levels.

Disturbance

regulation

Capacitance, damping and integrity of ecosystem response to

environmental fluctuations.

Water regulation Regulation of hydrological flows.

Water supply Storage and retention of water.

Erosion control and

sediment retention

Retention of soil within an ecosystem.

Maintenance of soil

structure and

fertility

Maintenance of soil structure and fertility processes.

Nutrient cycling Storage, internal cycling, processing and acquisition of nutrients.

Waste treatment

Recovery of mobile nutrients and removal or breakdown of excess

or xeric nutrients and compounds.

Pollination Movement of floral gametes.

Biological control Tropic dynamic regulations of populations.


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Refuge Habitat for resident and transient populations.

Food production That portion of gross primary production extractable as food.

Raw materials That portion of gross primary production extractable as raw

materials.

Genetic resources Sources of unique biological materials and products.

Recreation Providing opportunities for recreational activities.

Cultural Providing opportunities for non-commercial uses.

Source: Costanza, 1997.

2.2.3 Ecosystem Functions

Primary productivity such as output of food, timber and fibre tends to be higher in areas

with high net primary production, and that at global scales, patterns of biodiversity and

the services associated with it generally increases with net primary production (Gaston,

2000). Increased levels of plant species diversity enhance grassland productivity in

restored grasslands on a range of soil types (Fagan et al., 2008). Nutrient cycling is also

one of the ecosystem functions. According to Nicklaus et al., 2001, functionally diverse

systems appear to be more effective in retaining nutrients than simpler ones; retention of

soil nutrients appears to be due to direct uptake of minerals by vegetation and by the

effects of plants on the dynamics of soil microbial populations.

Stability of the soil ecosystem is closely linked to the relative abundance of the different

functional groups of organisms such as earthworms and macro- and micro-invertebrates

can increase soil structure via burrows or casts and enhance soil fertility through partial

digestion and communities of soil organic matter (Zhang et al., 2007).

2.2.4 Ecosystem Services

Simply speaking, ecosystem services are “the benefits people obtain from ecosystems.”

More broadly, ecosystem services are the conditions and processes through which natural

ecosystems, and the species that make them up, sustain and fulfill human life. They

maintain biodiversity and the production of ecosystem goods, such as food, forage

timber, biomass fuels, natural fibber, and many pharmaceuticals, industrial products, and

their precursors. (MEA, 2005)


13

The production of food and raw materials, clean air and water, flood regulation, and

recreation and ecotourism are all dependent on ecosystem services provided by soil,

waters, and forests (Irina B. et al. (Ed), 2011). The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment

(MEA), 2005, an extensive international ecosystem service assessment, result shows that

15 of the 24 main ecosystem services assessed are significant decline in different regions

of the world. The situation had improved for only four services over the last 50 years.

The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment classifies the ecosystem services into:

Provisioning Services are the goods or products that people obtain from ecosystems such

services include food, fibber, biomass fuel, fresh water, genetic resources, biochemical,

natural medicine and pharmaceutical (Ranganathan J. et al., 2008).

Regulating Services are the benefits obtained from ecosystem’s control of natural

processes including air quality regulation, climate regulation, water regulation, erosion

regulation, water purification, waste treatment, disease and pest regulation and natural

hazard regulation (Ranganathan J. et al., 2008).

Cultural Services are the nonmaterial benefits obtained from ecosystem services such as

aesthetic values, existence values, recreational and ecotourism (Ranganathan J. et al.,

2008).

Supporting Services are the underlying processes that are necessary for the production

of all other ecosystem services. It includes the nutrient cycling maintenance of soil

structure and fertility, primary production, photosynthesis and water cycling

(Ranganathan J. et al., 2008).

2.2.5 Conditions and trends of Ecosystem Services

People seek multiple and different services from ecosystems and thus perceive the

condition of an ecosystem in relation to its ability to provide the services desired.

According to the MEA, 2005, for these conditions of provisioning services -the

sustainability of the production of a particular ecosystem service can refer simply to

whether the biological potential of the ecosystem to sustain the yield of that service (such

as food production) is being maintained.


14

The conditions of the regulating services depends more on whether the ecosystem’s

capability to regulate a particular service has been enhanced or diminished. Thus if forest

clearance in a region has resulted in decreased precipitation and this has had harmful

consequences for people, the condition of that regulatory service has been degraded

(Rapport et al. 1995 cited in MEA synthesis report, 2005).

As MEA synthesis report, 2005, the condition of cultural services depends heavily on

either direct or indirect human use of the service. For example, the condition of a

regulating service such as water quality might be high even if humans are not using the

clean water produced, but an ecosystem provides cultural services only if there are people

who value the cultural heritage associated with it.

Supporting services maintain the conditions for life on Earth but may affect people only

indirectly (by supporting the production of another service, as maintenance of soil

structure and fertility supports food production) or over very long time periods such as

the role of ecosystems in producing oxygen (MEA, 2005). According to Daily G. et al

1997 cited in Barbara Boyle Torrey 2004, primary production is a fundamental

supporting service, since life requires the production of organic compounds. But if global

primary production were to increase by 5 percent over the next century, it would be

difficult to categorize the change as an enhancement or degradation of the service, though

it certainly would be a significant change.

2.2.6 Changes Urban Ecosystem Services

Urbanizing regions increasing challenge the ecosystem’s capacity to deliver important

ecological services to the human population and support human well-being. Scholars of

urban ecology have hypothesized that the patterns of urbanization control ecosystem

dynamics through complex interactions and feedback mechanisms linking urban

activities and their spatial organization to land cover and environmental change (Alberti,

2010).

Although ecosystem services provide a great number of functions and services that create

value for human users and are central to the continuation of human civilization, humans


15

have not clearly expressed the existence and importance of ecosystem services in a great

haste to celebrate urban fantasy CAVSARTENRC (Committee on Assessing and Valuing

the Services of Aquatic and Related Terrestrial Ecosystems, National Research Council,

2004). Van der Ryn & Cowan (2007) express the reality of increasing disconnection of

humans with nature as: “we live in two interpenetrating worlds. The first is the living

world, natural world, which has been created in an evolutionary crucible over a period of

four billion years. The second is the world of roads and cities, farms and artifacts, human

designed world, which people have been designing for themselves over the last few

millennia”. The growth and prosperity of the human designed world has come from the

expense of the resources of the natural world.

According to Alberti (2008) urbanized areas have extraordinarily large ecological

footprints with the largest proportion of resource uses and carbon emissions.

Urbanization affects primary productivity, nutrient cycling, hydrological function, and

ecosystem dynamics through direct and subtle changes in climatic, hydrologic,

geomorphic, and biogeochemical processes and biotic interactions.

2.2.4 Ecosystem Approach

Biodiversity conservation has traditionally relied on a system of designated areas in order

to protect threatened and endangered species. The primary geographical emphasis of this

process has been outside of urban areas. Such a system is fundamental as a means to an

end where that end is protection and maintenance of ever-decreasing wild biodiversity.

Biodiversity also exists outside of rural areas and inhabits urban (city) region. According

to Mclnnes R. (nd) the ecosystem approach, which recognizes that human society is an

integral component of ecosystem, provide a conceptual that integrates the management of

land, water and living resources whilst promoting conservation and sustainable use in an

equitable way.

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) defines the ecosystem approach as “a

strategy for the integrated management of land, water and living resources that promotes

conservation and sustainable use in an equitable way. Ecosystem service approaches to

conservation are being championed as a new strategy for conservation, under the


16

hypothesis that they will broaden and deepen support for biodiversity protection.

Ecosystem service approaches aim to engage a much wider range of places, people,

policies, and financial resources in conservation. This is particularly important given

projected intensification of human impacts, with rapid growth in population size and

individual aspirations (MEA, 2005).

As Robert Mclnnes (nd) essential to the delivery of the ecosystem approach is the

recognition that the conservation of ecosystem structure and functioning, in order to

maintain ecosystem services should be a priority. The ecosystem approach is based on

application of appropriate scientific methodologies focused on levels of biological

organization, which encompass the essential process and interaction among organisms

and their environment and the linkage among ecosystem (Getachew Tesfaye, 2006).

2.2.5 Importance of Ecosystem Approach

Ecosystem service approaches to conservation offer a promising way to align

conservation and production, simultaneously enhancing human well being and protecting

Earth’s biodiversity and life support systems (Mooney H. A. (Ed), 2008 cited in (SCBD)

(2012)). The ecosystem approach considers our activities as part of a single system where

all sectors are integrated, allowing the wider consequences of decisions to be determined

and managed (Partnerships Involving Stakeholders in the Celtic Sea Ecosystem

(PISCES), 2012 cited in Zewa G., 2013). It provides a framework by which ecosystem

services are integrated into public and private decision making. Its implementation

typically incorporates a variety of methods, including ecosystem service dependency and

impact assessment; valuation, scenarios, and policies and other interventions targeted at

sustaining ecosystem services. And further emphasizes ecosystem services as the link

between ecosystems and development (UNCED, 1992).

The ecosystem approach has a comprehensive nature to protect, preserve, and utilize

ecological resources, communities, and economies sustainably. According to Tesfaye and

G/Medhin (2004) the ecosystem approach does not single out a species or pieces of land

from its surroundings. All are interconnected, and disturbing or managing one affects the

other in that ecosystem. It does not look an ecosystem for a dominant gene or species,


17

rather takes unseen more valuables goods and services of ecosystem into consideration.

The ecosystem approach optimizes the mix of benefits across a given ecosystem.

As the IBCR (Institute of Biodiversity Conservation and Research) (2002) the ecosystem

approach maintains productive potential of ecosystems. It views production of goods and

services as the natural product of healthy ecosystem, not as an end in itself. It is a method

for sustaining or restoring natural systems and their functions and values. According to

World Resource Center (2000) the ecosystem approach integrates traditional and

indigenous knowledge system with scientific thinking in provisioning conservation

solutions. It has a holistic view of human health and environmental sustainability. It

identifies interventions that will lead to improve human health and well-being while

simultaneously maintaining or improving the health of the ecosystem as a whole. Thus,

the application of the ecosystem approach will help to reach a balance of the three

objectives of the Convention: conservation; sustainable use; and the fair and equitable

sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. An ecosystem

approach is based on the application of appropriate scientific methodologies focused on

levels of biological organization, which encompass the essential structure, processes,

functions and interactions among organisms and their environment.

2.3 Environmental problems in developing countries

According to Falkenmark M., 1989 cited in Barbara Boyle Torrey 2004, population

growth will lead to increasing production activities in the landscape and increasing

pressure on water resources that are scarce for climatic reasons.

2.3.2 Landscape Degradation

As the analysis of the results from a study conducted by World Bank on a large number

of third world countries indicates that what we tend to speak of as environmental

problems are basically caused by human activities in the landscape (D. Partha and M.

Karl-Goran (Eds), 1997 cited in Bolund and Hunhammar, 1999). Human activities like

deforestation, solid waste disposal, waste water disposal, land overexploitation and

ground water overexploitation primarily result in degradation of land fertility, soil

erosion, floods, desertification, water pollution and crop failures. Finally these causes


18

morbidity, famine, drought, silted reservoirs, health hazards and degradation of

biodiversity (Falkenmark M., 1989).

2.3.3 Water Scarcity

The poverty-stricken countries are, to a surprisingly a large extent, located in the dry

climate tropics and subtropics. Man induced water scarcity in least developed countries

are exacerbated by human behavior and can therefore, in principle, be minimized and

controlled the challenge is not the lack of water but also a vulnerability related to the rain

water partitioning (Falkenmark M., 1989).

2.3.4 Water Pollution

As Falkenmrk M. (1989) explained, the exaggerated input of chemicals like nitrate

fertilizers enters the water cycle by the land branch. The nitrate surplus gets dissolved in

the passing water in the soil on its way to groundwater aquifers in recharge areas, and to

water bodies in well drained discharge areas. On the other hand, emission of the

acidifying gases into the atmosphere from human activities, mainly energy production

and traffic. These gases are dissolved in water droplets in the atmosphere, carried to the

landscape by precipitation, and transformed into a dilute acid, which is danger for plants,

animals, humans and other microorganisms’ life on and inside the earth.

2.4 Empirical Research Review

Scientific evidence shows that ecosystems are under unprecedented pressure, threatening

prospects for sustainable development. While the challenges are daunting, they also

provide opportunities for local communities, business and government to innovate for the

benefit of communities, economies and the global environment. However, in order to

secure the environmental conditions for prosperity, stability and equity, timely responses

that are proportionate to the scale of the environmental challenges will be required. In

creating such responses, governments, the international community, the private sector,

civil society and the general public all have an important role to play (UNEP, 2011 cited

in Robert T., 1998).

According to Robert T., 1998 ecosystem management based on its seven pillars can be

defined as “The application of ecological and social information, options, and constraints


19

to achieve desired social benefits within a defined geographic area and over a specified

period.”

Land is among the valuable earth resources and a home base for human beings and other

living creatures. If there is no interference and destruction by man, the ecosystem

by itself can regenerate the nature and the land resources. However, world experience

indicates that human beings are the extractors and destructors of the natural resources,

leading to hazardous conditions for the regeneration of the earth’s ecosystem. As Sisay

Habtamu Tekle, 2012 in Ethiopian cities, particularly in Addis Ababa lack of proficiency

of government delegates in urban land development management, lack of competency of

planners, and lack of long-term vision to plan for a sustain urban future. In Kele town as

Getnet Haile, 2013 there was lack of urban good governance and lack of effective rules

and regulations on urban expansion towards peri-urban villages result in land

overconsumption and degradation.

Water purification and waste treatment are important ecosystem services that protect

water sources from contamination. Access to water is carefully monitored to prevent

waste. Rivers, lakes, and oceans are protected against contamination that can affect both

marine and land life. Waste produced by human and commercial processes is carefully

managed to avoid damage to the environment (UNEP, 2011 cited in Robert T., 1998). In

Kelle tow majority of the residents have shortage of potable water, which results from

inappropriate land use in the upstream of the watershed to which the town belongs; these

is because the community participation in issues related to water resource management is

not only rare but also restricted mostly to getting information about ongoing water

resource management projects rather than giving room to the community to being a part

of the decision; and that the municipal Water Service Office has serious problem of

capacity to manage water as well as to serve the community (Zewa G., 2013).

2.4 Research Gap

Urban vegetation, particularly trees, provides numerous benefits that can improve

environmental quality, and human health in and around urban areas. These benefits

include improvements in air and water quality, building energy conservation, cooler air


20

temperatures, reductions in ultraviolet radiation, and many other environmental and

social benefits (Nowak and Dwyer 2007). A study in Stockholm shows that increasing

the areas with soft ground and vegetation may decrease these noise levels. Vegetation

may also contribute by shielding the visual intrusion of traffic and thus making it less

disturbing (Bolund P. and Hunhammar S., 1999).

As Vringer and Blok (1995) the ways in which population change influences ecosystems

are complex. The basic pathway is from growing consumption driven by population to

production processes that rely in part on ecosystem services to meet that consumption.

The ultimate effects on ecosystems of an additional person are influenced by the entire

range of indirect drivers (demographic, economic, socio-political, cultural and religious

and science and technology).

As the study under taken by Barbara Boyle Torrey 2004, in sub-Saharan Africa urban

people change their environment through their consumption of food, energy, water and

land. And in turn the polluted urban environment affects the health and quality of life of

the urban population. At the same time the caloric requirement of older African is 70%

more than children age (0-8 year), this trend actually result in 6% growth in caloric

requirements independent of population growth. Hence, as the projection of United

Nations HABITAT ( 1996) in the coming 30 years or during 2030 the population of

urban Africa increases to 61% in turn aggravating the degradation of nature.

However, the research undertaken by Guluma Zewa, 2013 at Kelle town on the integrated

water resource management lacks to identify the challenges on the other different

ecosystem services. The careful management of soil, trees, grasses, and forests helps

protect air quality and food sources for people. Land conservation is also a vital

ecosystem service that helps maintain a healthy environment for people and animals. And

Getnet Haile, 2013 found that there is a gap on land development management in Kelle

town and left the rest ecosystem services or natural capital as unstudied.

Perception of the public on the status of ES at KELLE town

2.5 Conceptual Framework

The ecosystem is constantly changing as a result of

anthropogenic drivers of change. These drivers put pressure on the e

affects the services they provide

land use, and modify the physical, chemical and biological

ecosystems. Indirect drivers are of more anthropogenic origin and affect human impacts

on ecosystems through such things as subsidies or policy development. These may then

feedback into the direct drivers, for example, by causin

Urbanization is the important human activities that can potentially harm the

services. Philippe Sands (2003)

diversity as the variation of ecosystems within a region.

Figure 2 Conceptual framework (source: developed

researcher, 2014)

Pressures

Deforestation,waste & wastedisposal, land &overexploitation


21

Conceptual Framework

is constantly changing as a result of a number of natural and

anthropogenic drivers of change. These drivers put pressure on the e

affects the services they provided by the ecosystem. The drivers may be direct, such as

land use, and modify the physical, chemical and biological processes in, and nature of



feedback into the direct drivers, for example, by causing changes in land use.

Urbanization is the important human activities that can potentially harm the

Philippe Sands (2003) cited in Van der Ryn & Cowan 2007

diversity as the variation of ecosystems within a region.

Figure 2 Conceptual framework (source: developed from literature review

Ecosystem Services

Provisioning, regulating, cultural,supporting

Initial Impacts

Degradation of soilfertility, soil erosion,water scarsity, waterpollution, floods &desertification

Drivers

Population growth, urbanexpansion and unsustainabledevelopment

solidwaterwater

June 13, 2014

a number of natural and

anthropogenic drivers of change. These drivers put pressure on the ecosystem, which

. The drivers may be direct, such as

processes in, and nature of



g changes in land use.

Urbanization is the important human activities that can potentially harm the ecosystem

2007, describe ecosystem

from literature review by the

Final Impacts

Morbidity,famine, drought,silted reserviour,health hazard &degradation ofbiodiversity


22

CHAPTER THREE

3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Design

Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were applied to this study.

To collect qualitative data such as awareness and opinion of the respondents towards the

changes on the ecosystem services due to urbanization. The quantitative one is required

to describe the number and percent of respondents and their responses which is

expressed numerically. Moreover, the quantitative approach is applied to analyze the

secondary data. The type of the research selected is descriptive because the aim of the

study is to describe the existing public perception on ecosystem services in the area. And

survey research strategy is used so as to collect factual behavioural data. The time

dimension of the study is a cross sectional one. This is because the study is needed to

involve observation of a population at one point in time.

3.2 Methods of Data Collection

The data were collected both from primary and secondary data sources. The primary data

were collected by using personal observation, interview (semi-structured), and

questionnaire methods to get detail information from the key informants, such as

officials, senior experts, and other respondents (household heads) in the study area. The

interview was done by both the researcher and enumerators, who have been trained by

the researcher. Check lists and photo camera were used during the observation, where as

questionnaire was used to collect extensive data from large number of respondents. This

was needed to collect data from the community and concerned institutions about the

urban development activities associated with ecosystem services. The secondary data

were collected from the existing reports, videos and other concerned documents by using

check list.


23

3.3 Sampling Technique

Both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used during selecting the

participants of the study. The non-probability sampling method, especially the purposive

one was needed for the selection of the key informants (officials and expertise of the

concerned organizations) from the community based on the exposure and knowledge of

the researcher about the community of the study area. This was because these

organizations were believed to have a lion share in the decision making and any activities

carried out regarding urban development and natural ecosystems conservation in the area.

The probability sampling technique has been used to select the required sample or

respondents randomly from the whole households of the ‘Kelle’ town. This was done by

using the list of the house number registered by the municipality of the town.

3.3.1 Population or Universe

The population or universe of the study was the population of Kelle Town. According to

the Central Statistics Agency (2010), estimated total population of ’Kelle’ town was

about 11,009 or 2,342 households.

3.3.2 The Sampling Frame

The sampling frame for the questionnaire survey is the lists of households of the town

(2,342) and the concerned institutions and clubs (Municipality, Water, Mine and Energy,

Health, and Agriculture offices and Kelle high school and Kelle primary school

environmental clubs).

3.3.3 Sampling Unit

The sampling units or the units of analysis are the household heads and the concerned

governmental institutions and school environmental clubs.

3.3.4 Sample Size

The proposed study is dealing with large population (11,009) the size of the sample is

determined by using the sample size determination formula:


24

Therefore, the size of the sampled household is 173 respondents which are randomly

selected by using on their house number. 24 key informants (officials, expertise and

school clubs) are selected purposely who are directly and indirectly concerned to the

issue under the study.

3.4 Source of Data

3.4.1 Primary Data Sources

The primary data sources were both the community or households, and the officials,

expertise and school clubs who were participating in the research. Therefore, the relevant

primary data were collected using both questionnaire and personal observation and semi-

structured interview from the key informants (school clubs, and concerned officials).

3.4.2 Secondary data sources

The appropriate stakeholders for the issue under discussion-the impacts of urbanization

on ecosystem services-were the institutions such as Kelle Town Water Service Office,

Mines and Energy office, Agriculture office, Municipality and health offices. Therefore,

it was necessary to search the available documents in the sectors so as to get important

information about their decision making regarding the urban development and related

ecosystem services management issues. To base the study on the scientific theories and to

n =

��[��]

��

��[��]�

�

�=

��.�[��.�]

�.��

�.��.�[��.�]��

�

�.�=

��.��

�.��.��

�.�

=(��)

�.�

= 173.33

n=173

Where

n=sample size required

N=number of household in the population: (2,342)

P=estimated variance in population, as a decimal:(0.5)

A=Precision desired, expressed as a decimal (0.07 for 7%)

Z= Confidence level at α 0.7 (1.81 for 93%)

R = Estimated Response rate (0.9 for 90%)


25

have relevant knowledge about the subject under study, books, journals, magazines,

internet and other data source were also very important.

3.5 Data Analysis

The data-both from the primary and secondary sources were analyzed after refining,

coding, and tabulating the collected data. The descriptive data analysis method was

employed to analyze the collected data.

3.6 Data Presentation

The most commonly used techniques for presenting research results including

percentage, frequency, table and graphs were applied. And also photographs-taken during

field observation were used to show the observation results.

3.7 Ethical Consideration

The research was about assessing the public opinion on the status of ecosystem services

and changes they have observed in the ecosystem services due to urbanization through

involving the sampled informants from the communities and concerned governmental

institutions, the researcher have kept confidentially the secret of the respondents and key

informants of the concerned institutions. The final result of the research is also not

exposed to other body-not concerned. And throughout the research process the

researcher was patient to treat every participants of the study and communicate politely.


26

Chapter Four

4. Data Analysis, Interpretation and Presentation

4.1 Introduction

This chapter covers data analysis, interpretation and presentation in which all the study

objectives attained through assessing the changes in ecosystem services due to the rapid

urbanization process in the area and the strategies developed to minimize the negative

impacts of the issue under discussion on the ecosystem services. It also deals with the

response rate, demography of the respondents, results, interpretation and discussion, and

data presentation tools applied to the study.

4.2 Response Rate

As it was proposed the total population number of Kelle Town was about 11,009 or 2,342

households and therefore, the size of sampled HH to deal with was 173 at a response rate

of 90%. However, the response rate of households (HH) was 10.2 percent less than the

expected and both the two school clubs were attained the research it was difficult to meet

all the required officials and experts as shown in the table below.

Table 2: Response rate of the study

Category of Respondents Number of Expected

respondents

Number of Actual

respondents

Rate in

percent

Household respondents 173 138 79.8

Officials and Experts 22 17 77

School Environment Clubs 2 2 100

Total 197 157

Source: Field Survey, March 2014

4.3 Household demographic composition

Socio-demographic composition such as distribution of head of households by age and

sex were important factors in determining the local development strategies. The


27

household characteristics are also important for participating in the local development

issues. Therefore, the age distribution, sex, religion and educational status of the

household heads that participated in the study are presented as the following table:

Table 3: The household heads' demographic composition

Characteristics Group Sex Male Female Total

Age

18-29 years 30 24 54 30-49 years 44 19 63 >50 years 16 5 21

Marital status

Single 52 26 78 Married 33 19 52 Divorce 5 3 8

Educational status

Illiterate 2 1 3 Literate 3 9 12 Grade 1-8 7 3 10 Grade 9-10 2 2 4 Grade 11-12 9 10 19 Other 67 23 90

Religion

Protestant 49 19 68 Orthodox 27 14 41 Muslim 6 12 18 Other 8 3 11

Source: Household survey, April 2014.

Age of the household heads was another important characteristic in determining the

perception of the public towards ecosystem services. In Ethiopia, active working age is

recognized to range between 15 and 60 years. However, it was noted, in table 2, that

many households (63) are headed by 30-49 years old men. The frequency of elderly

heads of households with age above 49, were lesser (only 21) and the rest 54 household

heads were under the age of less than 29 in the study area. These Kelle Town may be

related to poor urbanization, where the majority of heads of households remain to be

those who founded the settlement late in 1966 G.C 23 years late to the emergence year of

Kelle Town. The overall dominance of younger in many urban places can also be

explained by migration to urban by young men, leaving behind elders to care of ancient

homes in rural (Haile G, 2013).


28

The distribution of head of households by sex shows male dominance, which is consistent

with general trends in many households in Ethiopia. However, in table 2, data showing

female heads of households at 34 % (48 in number) in the area of study were it is larger

compared to national average which show the female heads of households at 26.1% at

national level (World Bank, 2011 cited in Haile G, 2013). This can raise the question

whether the female heads of households, who mainly comprise of widows and divorcee,

are finding small centres more accommodating. In other study in developing countries,

Tacoli (2003) observed that female attraction to urban and preference to non-farm work

is influenced by lack of land bases, which in many places is mainly dominated by their

male counterparts. As shown in table 2, 78 of the respondents (56.5%) were unmarried,

followed by married 52 household heads (37.7%) and the rest 8 household heads (5.8%)

were divorced. The educational background of the respondents was another important

characteristic that determine the perception of an individual towards the ecosystem

services in the study area. Table 2 above shows that 3 of them are illiterate. Those who

have attained the grade levels of 1-8 were 10. Moreover, 4 of them were grade 9-10, 19

of them were 11-12 grades complete and 90 of them were graduated from different

educational institutes. This implies that most of the urban community has educational

qualifications by which they are able to ensure their income when changes occurring.

In generally, other than introducing this chapter the response rate of the study, basic

information of the household heads; age category, sex and headship of the household

heads, marital status and educational background of the respondents were analyzed.


29

4.4 Results of the Study

4.4.1 Public Opinions on the current conditions and trends of Ecosystem

The opinion of the respondent on current land use type of the town was coded and

analysed as figure 3 below. In this regard 83 household heads were replayed that the land

use type is changed. On the other hand, 55 household heads assumed that the existing

land use type remain as it was. As in the picture it shown below the former kelle town

land use was with more areas covered by natural forests, and it has also farm lands within

the boundary of the town.

The former Kelle town 2000 GC

Source: Google earth, 2000.

As it has been observed the former forest ecosystem was removed due to the need of land

for the construction of residential houses, commercial and industrial zones. These

activities of the town put on a strong stress on the nearby rural villages ecosystem capital

(goods and services). Therefore, the current land use types of the town become changed

from naturally vegetated land use type to more building invaded land use type.


Expansion of Kelle

Source: Field observation, March 2014.

Figure 3: public opinion on the existing conditions of land use type


The perception of the public for the current

Kelle was assessed below

land cover in different ways. Some of them or 89

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

changing


30

of Kelle town to the east natural forest

observation, March 2014.

: public opinion on the existing conditions of land use type


The perception of the public for the current condition of surface cover of the town of

below in chart 6. In this case different people perceive their town’s

land cover in different ways. Some of them or 89 respondents perceive as the land cover

changing not changing

83

55

June 13, 2014

surface cover of the town of

different people perceive their town’s

perceive as the land cover

frequency


of the town is covered by few forest trees, 21 of

the respondents replayed as it is bar surfaces and

of the town is more covered by forest trees. However, the annual report of the

municipality of the town showed that 568 he

nearby rural villages were converted to residential buildings since 1995

progressive expansion of the town was started.

Figure 4: Public perception on the e


The public opinion on the

and analyzed and presented as

replayed that there is no change on the natural forest ecosystem o

household heads were said

and water conservation program,

aforestation activity in the town

household heads agreed that there is deforestation on the natural forest ecosystem of the

town.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

more forest

8


31

of the town is covered by few forest trees, 21 of them said that it is more built up, 20 of

the respondents replayed as it is bar surfaces and in the opinion of 8 respondents the land


municipality of the town showed that 568 hectares of natural forest and farm land of the

nearby rural villages were converted to residential buildings since 1995

progressive expansion of the town was started.

Public perception on the existing condition of land cover


public opinion on the current natural forest ecosystem of Kelle town was a

and analyzed and presented as table below. In this regard 39.9% of the

replayed that there is no change on the natural forest ecosystem of the town,

were said that there is a reforestation activity in the area through soil

and water conservation program, 18.8% of the household heads were believe as there is

forestation activity in the town and its surrounding rural villages


few forest bare surface more built up surface

89

20 21

June 13, 2014

them said that it is more built up, 20 of

in the opinion of 8 respondents the land


ctares of natural forest and farm land of the

nearby rural villages were converted to residential buildings since 1995- a time when the

xisting condition of land cover

current natural forest ecosystem of Kelle town was assessed

39.9% of the household heads

f the town, 32.6% of the

there is a reforestation activity in the area through soil

were believe as there is

ral villages, but 8.7% of the


more built up

Frequency


32

Table 4: Public perception on the current forest ecosystem

Activity on forest ecosystem Frequency Percent

Deforestation 12 8.7

Afforestation 26 18.8

Reforestation 45 32.6

No change 55 39.9

Total 138 100


The public perception for water ecosystem and air quality of the town were assessed

based on the current conditions of springs, rivers and human health and then were

analyzed as shown in figure 5 below. Here, 72.5% of the household heads were

responded as there is a decrease in both the volume and quality of the springs and rives,

16.7% of the household heads were replayed as increase both in the volume and quality

of the springs and river water, 8% of the household heads were believed as there is

increase in the quality but decrease in volume, and the rest 2.9% of the household heads

said that there is decrease in quality but increase in the volume of the water. From the

annual report of the Kelle tow water services office it is observed that the former springs-

from ‘Torkiso’ area were dried out and the office have been developed other springs from

distance area of the town.

Figure 5: The diseases prevalence due to the changes on the water and air quality

Source: Amaro Special Woreda DPBPMESWP, 2013.

0

2000

4000

6000

8000

10000

2010 2011 2012 2013

Num

ber

of c

ases

Year

MalariaTyphoid fever


33

On the other hands, the perception of the public for the current quality of the air with

respect to day to day human health conditions were assessed and analyzed as it is shown

in table 5. In this case 120 household heads were agreed with decrease in the quality of

air, 18 household heads were sure of that there is increase in the quality of air in the town.

According to Yohannise Basha the prevalence of typhoid fever cases record in Kelle

health center on average increases from 2010 to 2013 as shown in the graph 5 above.

Table 5: Public perception on the current status of water resource and air quality of the town

Changes

Water resources Air quality

Frequency Percent Frequency Percent

Decrease in volume and/or quality 100 72.5 120 87

Increase in volume and quality 23 16.7

Increase in quality and decrease in volume 11 8.0 18 13

Decrease in quality and increase in volume

4 2.9

Total 138 100 138 100

Source: Household survey, March 2014.

In summary, the perception of the public for the current conditions and trends of land use

type, land cover, forest ecosystem, the water ecosystem and the existing conditions of the

air quality of Kelle town were assessed and analyzed in this section.

4.4.2 Perception of the Public on the Ecosystem Types, Source and function

In this section the perception of the public on the types, sources and functions of

ecosystem services in Kelle town were assessed. Therefore, as it is shown in figure 6

below the household heads of any literacy status perceive as supporting services of the

ecosystem are available; however, the literates believe that cultural more (66.7%) and

less (33.3%) supporting ecosystem services are being available; still those who are grade

10 completes perceive as there is only regulating and provisioning ecosystem services

available in their town. In other hand the literates and 12th grade completes perceive that

there is no cultural services but only the supporting, regulating and provisioning services

are available in the town.


Figure 6: Public perception on the ecosystem service types


As in figure 7 below it was presented 113 household heads were

town benefit its ecosystem services from the nearby rural area such as the forests around

the town, the water sources in the mountain found in the west of the town

household heads were said that the source of

urban greenery found within the town, and still 9 household heads believe that the

ecosystem services source of kelle town is an urban forestry that found inside the town

administrative boundary and the rest 2 household heads accept t

sources that means from mix of the above sources.

As Kelle town office of water services annual report (2013) the town receives clean water

from five springs namely:

in the mountain chains

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

illitrate

p

e

r

c

e

n

t


34

: Public perception on the ecosystem service types


below it was presented 113 household heads were perceived


the town, the water sources in the mountain found in the west of the town

household heads were said that the source of ecosystem services


source of kelle town is an urban forestry that found inside the town

administrative boundary and the rest 2 household heads accept t

sources that means from mix of the above sources.


from five springs namely: ‘Mucho’, ‘Dorba’, ‘Hasha’-1, ‘Hasha’-2, and ‘Hasha’

chains to the west of the town. The report showed that the average water

litrate grade 1-8 grade 9-10 grade 11

June 13, 2014

perceived that the Kelle


the town, the water sources in the mountain found in the west of the town; however, 14

ecosystem services to Kelle town is the


source of kelle town is an urban forestry that found inside the town

administrative boundary and the rest 2 household heads accept that it is from other


2, and ‘Hasha’-3 found

to the west of the town. The report showed that the average water

grade 11-12 others

cultural

supportining

regulating

provisioning


discharge of these springs was six litters per second. But based on the monthly water

consumption of hotels, offices and residential homes estimated fresh water consumption

of the town per year is approximately 13,502 m

the Kelle town office of water service reduction in volume of the springs is the major

challenge.

Figure 7: Public perception on the s


The public perception on the four

functioning well or not was

household heads agreed as the

is because of there is repeated flood risks in some parts of the town particularly the

eastern part of the town, in addition to this, there i

and drying of the river water and the springs from which the town get its water supply for

domestic and other purposes. According to Mr. Barta

reduction in volume and drying of springs s

March) in kelle town; however, the rest 52 household heads perceive as the

2 Mr. Barta is an expert in

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

nearby rural area

113


35


tion of hotels, offices and residential homes estimated fresh water consumption

the town per year is approximately 13,502 m3 (13,501,908 litters). From the report of


Public perception on the source of ecosystem services to ‘Kelle’


The public perception on the four ecosystem services types found in the tow whether

functioning well or not was assessed and analyzed as figure 8 below. In this regard 86

household heads agreed as the ecosystem services are not functioning well they said this


eastern part of the town, in addition to this, there is increase in the hotness of the town


domestic and other purposes. According to Mr. Barta2, there is a considerable water

reduction in volume and drying of springs specially the dry months (January, February,

March) in kelle town; however, the rest 52 household heads perceive as the

Mr. Barta is an expert in office of kelle town water supply services

nearby rural areaurban forestryurban greenery others

9 142

frequency

June 13, 2014


tion of hotels, offices and residential homes estimated fresh water consumption

(13,501,908 litters). From the report of


‘Kelle’ Town

types found in the tow whether

below. In this regard 86

are not functioning well they said this


s increase in the hotness of the town


, there is a considerable water

the dry months (January, February,

March) in kelle town; however, the rest 52 household heads perceive as the ecosystem

kelle town water supply services

frequency


services are performing well.

town municipality record

Figure 8: Public perception on the functions of


As shown in figure 9

major indicators for the ecosystem

household heads perceive

time, 32 household heads agreed as repeated flooding in some parts of the town is the

indicator of ecosystem services change, and 38 household heads believe that the

ecosystem services change i

agreed that the plantation of

as the root cause for the

As the four consecutive yearly repo

Amaro special Woreda shows that the hotness of the town has made

conditions for the reproduction of the anopheles mosquito

transmit malaria from infected person to the

3 Yohannis Basha: owner of the development plan and budget preparation, monitoring

and evaluation supportive work process in Amaro Special Woreda Health Office

0

20

40

60

80

100


36

are performing well. In addition to this, the 2011 and 2013 annual report of Kelle

town municipality record repeated water out flow causing flood incidences in Kebele 02.

: Public perception on the functions of ecosystem services


hotness of the town, flood incidence and drying of springs are the

major indicators for the ecosystem services are changing in Kelle

perceive as the air temperature of the town becoming warm from time to



ecosystem services change is well expressed by drying of springs around the town.

agreed that the plantation of eucalyptus trees on the springs and over the ‘Bewaye’ river,

as the root cause for the destruction of the springs around the town.

As the four consecutive yearly reports (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013) of the Health office of

Amaro special Woreda shows that the hotness of the town has made

conditions for the reproduction of the anopheles mosquito- a vector responsible to

transmit malaria from infected person to the healthy one. Yohannis Basha

: owner of the development plan and budget preparation, monitoring and evaluation supportive work process in Amaro Special Woreda Health Office

yes no

52

86

June 13, 2014

In addition to this, the 2011 and 2013 annual report of Kelle

ater out flow causing flood incidences in Kebele 02.

hotness of the town, flood incidence and drying of springs are the

Kelle tow were. Here 68

as the air temperature of the town becoming warm from time to



s well expressed by drying of springs around the town. They

trees on the springs and over the ‘Bewaye’ river,

the town.

rts (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013) of the Health office of

Amaro special Woreda shows that the hotness of the town has made favourable

a vector responsible to

healthy one. Yohannis Basha3 said that As a

: owner of the development plan and budget preparation, monitoring and evaluation supportive work process in Amaro Special Woreda Health Office

frequency


result of this the Kelle health

these years for example 558 individuals in 2010, during 2011 the record shows about

8,866 malaria cases, in 2012 the

reduced because of the application of anti

malaria prone areas the number of malaria infected individuals reduced to 4,785.

Figure 9: Perception of the public to the


According to the urban agriculture department of Kelle town municipality and natural

resources management work process of the Amaro special woreda office of Agriculture

16 ecosystem services were identified as available within and around the town. These

includes fibber, food, fresh water, natural medicine and biomass fuel provisioning

ecosystem services; water purification, erosion controlling, local climate

controlling and waste treatment regulating ecosystem services; maintenance of soil

structure and fertility, nutrient cycling, and photosynthesis supporting ecosystem

services; aesthetic, existence, and recreational value of cultural services provided by the

ecosystem.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

hotness

68


37

result of this the Kelle health centre record increments in the number of malaria cases in

example 558 individuals in 2010, during 2011 the record shows about

8,866 malaria cases, in 2012 the number was 8,505 and in 2013 the cases become

reduced because of the application of anti-malaria chemicals with in the villages of

areas the number of malaria infected individuals reduced to 4,785.

: Perception of the public to the indicators of ecosystem services changing





cludes fibber, food, fresh water, natural medicine and biomass fuel provisioning

ecosystem services; water purification, erosion controlling, local climate




flood drying of springs

3238

June 13, 2014

record increments in the number of malaria cases in

example 558 individuals in 2010, during 2011 the record shows about

number was 8,505 and in 2013 the cases become

malaria chemicals with in the villages of

areas the number of malaria infected individuals reduced to 4,785.

of ecosystem services changing




cludes fibber, food, fresh water, natural medicine and biomass fuel provisioning

ecosystem services; water purification, erosion controlling, local climate controlling, pest




frequency


38

Table 6: The identified ecosystem services in and around Kelle town

Type of

Services

Sub

category

Sources Functions

Provisioning Fibber Trees and other fibber

plants like cotton and

sisal4

Timbers for furniture,

construction and fibber

production

Food Agro-ecosystem

(Cultivated crops

production and field

fruits)

Serve as human food and forage

for domestic animals and feed for

wild animals

Fresh

water

Highland springs and

river

Clean water for drinking, for other

domestic consumption and

irrigation water

Natural

medicines

Natural forests and urban

agriculture (spices5)

Tree extracts used for pest

Control and spices for flavour

food

Biomass

fuel

Nearby rural areas Fuel wood to cook

Regulating Water

purificatio

n

Swampy areas nearby the

town

Remove harmful chemicals from

water body

Erosion

controlling

Trees and grasses prevents soil loss and siltation of

water ways; hold soil in place

thereby preventing

landslides

Local

climate

Street trees and forests

within and around the

Carbon sequestration and cooling

the air temperature through

4 Sisal (agave sisalana): a Mexican agave with large fleshy leaves, cultivated for the fibre it

yields. 5 Spices: an aromatic or pungent vegetable substance used to flavour food. Eg. Garlic,

Chilli


39

regulating town transpiration and shade

Pest

control

Natural ecosystems

found nearby rural areas

Predators as bats, toads, snakes,

consume crop pests

Waste

treatment

Soil microbes Degrade organic waste

Cultural Aesthetic

value

Mountains with natural

vegetation

Spiritual fulfilment

from mountains and rivers

Existence

value

Natural forests nearby

mountains (‘Kecha’)

Biodiversity for the sake of

biodiversity conservation

Recreation

al value

Natural forests and river

‘Bewaye’

Provide opportunity to watch

birds and camping

Supporting Maintenan

ce of soil

structure

and

fertility

Leguminous trees, soil

microorganisms and

herbs

Trees like acacia spp maintain soil

structures and create root nodules

to favour Ryhzobiume bacteria for

nitrogen fixation

Nutrient

cycling

Trees and soil microbes Extract water and minerals from

deep soil and the microbes

breakdown the leaf and dead trees

to organic compounds

Photosynt

hesis

Leaves Combine CO2, water and sunlight

to produce sugar and oxygen

Source: Amaro special woreda office of agriculture, 2013.

In summary, the public perception toward the types of ecosystem services available in

Kelle town, sources of the ecosystem services in the town, functions of the ecosystem

services and the indicators of changes in ecosystem services were addressed as well as

the ecosystem services available in Kelle town, their sources and functions are

summarized in this section.


40

4.4.3 Public Perception on the Changes observed in the Ecosystem Services and

Drivers

4.4.3.1 The public perception on the availability of ecosystem services

To assess the public perception on the availability of ecosystem services, the identified 16

ecosystem services were considered. These were food, fibber, biomass fuel, fresh water,

natural medicines of provisioning services; local climate regulation, erosion controlling,

water purification and waste assimilation, and pest controlling of regulating services;

aesthetic value, existence value, and recreational value of cultural services; nutrient

cycling, maintenance of soil structure and fertility, photosynthesis of supporting services

of natural ecosystem.

The perception of the public on the edible plant and animal species gathered or captured

in the wild such as fruits and bush meat availability were assessed through questionnaire.

As shown in the table below, 44% of the household heads perceive as the availability of

food provisioning services of the ecosystem services have been decreasing, 28% of the

heads perceive as it is increasing and the rest 28% of the household heads perceive as

there is no change on this ecosystem services in and around their town. They are more

confident in that the major causes for the changes is the human activities like clearing

forest, water and land overexploitation to meet the increasing demands of the growing

population needs.


41

Table 7: Public opinion in the ecosystem services changes in Kelle town

S. No Ecosystem Services Availability of the identified ES (%)

Decrease Increase No change

1 Food provisioning 44 28 28

2 Fibber provisioning 35 17 49

3 Fresh water provisioning 73 19 8

4 Natural medicine provisioning 58 11 31

5 Biomass fuel provisioning 46 18 36

6 Water purification 67 16 17

7 Erosion controlling 51 16 33

8 Local climate regulating 59 17 23

9 Pest controlling 44 28 28

10 Waste assimilation 67 16 17

11 Aesthetic value 41 22 38

12 Existence value 37 43 20

13 Recreational value 43 28 29

14 Maintenance of soil structure & fertility 44 17 39

15 Nutrient cycling 47 19 34

16 Photosynthesis 54 15 30

Source: HH assessment results, April 2014.

According to table 7 case 44% of the household heads responded as there is no change

with the availability of fibber provisioning ecosystem services, 35% of the household

heads responded as the availability of fibber provisioning ecosystem services become

decreasing and 17% of the household heads said that this services of natural ecosystem

get increasing in their town.

In Kelle town there are 17 furniture workshops which are directly use the timber

production of the nearby rural areas. As the workshops owners replayed for the

availability of the timber-produce from Cordial Africana as it is decreasing from time to


42

time. That is why the cost of the timber productions increases from time to time even

within a month.

From the analysis in the table 7 above 46% of the household heads said as it is

decreasing, 36% of the household heads replay as there is no change on this ecosystem

services, but 18% of the household heads thought as this ecosystem service become

increasing. As it was observed from the fuel wood market in Kelle town the amount of

fuel wood prepared were as small as compared the cases before 5 years ago in this place.

And the suppliers said that they were go distance areas from the town to search the fuel

wood for their market.

As fresh water availability of springs and rivers were assumed to assess easily the public

opinion on availability of fresh water provisioning ecosystem services, 73% of the

household heads said as the availability of springs and rivers are decreasing. They reason

out that the growth of the town requires increased consumption of water for construction

and home and the unsustainable use of water. In the other hands, 19% of the household

heads said as the availability of springs and rivers are increasing, and the rest 8% of the

household heads replay as there is no change on this ecosystem services.

The medicinal plants were considered during the assessment of public perception and

field observation on the availability of natural medicine provisioning ecosystem services.

The responses of household heads on this ecosystem services were analyzed as table 7

shows that 58% of the household heads perceive that there is a decrease in the availability

of natural medicine provisioning services of natural ecosystem in their town. This is

because of the loss of the medical plant species due to the introduction of exotic plant

species. 11% of the household heads were opposite to the first groups saying that it is

increasing in that they are not well aware of the ecosystem functions as natural medicine

sources but the remaining 31% of the household heads were on the side of respondents

saying that there is no change on the availability of natural medicine provisioning

ecosystem services in their town.

As shown in table 7 above, 59% of the household heads accept as the availability of the

ecosystem services for climate regulating is decreasing in their town because they


43

observe that the air temperature of their town is become hot, flood incidences and drying

of springs and river (reduction in the discharge of ‘Bewaye’ river and drying of

‘Looyndo’ river). 23% of the household heads were accepted as there is no change on the

availability of climate regulating ecosystem services in their town; however, 17% of the

household heads were agreed up on there is an increasing situation on the ecosystem

services for regulating the climate.

The perception of the public on ecosystem services availability for water purification was

assessed and analyzed according to table 7 above. In this case 67% of the household

heads said that this ecosystem services is decreasing in their town, 16% of the household

heads were agreed as there is increments in this ecosystem services; however, 17% of the

household heads replayed as there is no change on the availability of water purification


The availability of vegetation in the town become removed through time to time and the

water purification function of the ecosystem is affected because there is increased release

of hazardous substances in to the air from the different processing industries found in the

town.

The public perception on the availability erosion regulating ecosystem services was

assessed and analyzed as in table 7 above shown that 51% of the household heads were

replayed as that the erosion regulating ecosystem services availability become reduced

because the former vegetated western part of the town become degraded due to the

construction of residential houses; however, 33% of the household heads agreed upon as

there is no change on the availability of erosion regulating ecosystem services in their


44

town, and the rest 16% of the households were said as there is an increasing situations on

the erosion regulating ecosystem services.

For waste assimilation ecosystem services the existing conditions of the rivers and solid

and liquid waste within and around the town was considered to assess the public

perception. Then it was analyzed as shown in table 7. As a result, 67% of the house hold

heads were replayed as there is a reduction in the availability of waste assimilation

ecosystem services, 16% of the household heads said that there is increased availability

of waste assimilation ecosystem functions in their town; however, the remaining 17% of

the household heads were on the side of saying there is no change on the availability of

waste assimilation services of ecosystem services in Kelle town.

In the case of pest regulating ecosystem services, 44% of the household heads perceive

that there is reduction in the availability of pest regulating ecosystem services in their

town, 28% of the household heads said that availability of pest regulating ecosystem

services is increasing, and the rest 38 household heads respond as there is no change on

the availability of pest regulating ecosystem services in their town.

The spiritual, religious, aesthetic and intrinsic values are considered when assessing the

public perception for the availability of aesthetic value cultural ecosystem services and

analyzed as table 7. For this 41% of the household heads were replayed as there is

decreasing situations on the availability of aesthetic value of cultural ecosystem services.

In the other hand 22% of the household heads were agreed as there is an increasing

situations on the availability of aesthetic value of cultural ecosystem services and the

remaining 38% of the household heads were assume that there is no changes on the

availability of aesthetic value cultural ecosystem services in their town.

The belief that all species are worth protecting regardless of their utility to human beings

(biodiversity for biodiversity’s sake) was considered during the public perception

assessment for the availability of existence value cultural ecosystem services and

analyzed as indicated in table 7. In this case 37% of the household heads were responding

as the availability of existence value of cultural ecosystem services is decreasing, 43% of

the household heads were replayed as there is an increment in the availability of existence


45

value cultural ecosystem services. Here the respondents were not aware of what to mean

by the existence value of ecosystem. That is why they were relating this service only with

the suitability of the town to human being. And 20% of the household heads were said

that there is no changes on the availability of existence value cultural ecosystem services

in their town.

The recreational pleasure that people derive from natural ecosystems were considered

during the assessment of public perception for the availability of recreational ecosystem

services and analyzed as shown in table 7. For this 43% of the household heads were said

that there is a decrement on the availability of recreation cultural ecosystem services,

28% of the household heads were replayed as there is an increment on the availability of

recreation cultural ecosystem services, and 29% of the household heads were agreed as

there is no changes on the availability of recreation cultural ecosystem services in their

town.

The perception of the public was assessed for the availability of nutrient cycling

supporting ecosystem services table 7 shows that 47% of the household heads were

agreed as there is a decrement on the availability of nutrient cycling supporting

ecosystem services, 19% of the household heads were perceived as there is an increment

on the availability of nutrient cycling supporting ecosystem services, and 34% of the

household heads were thought as there is no change on the availability of nutrient cycling

supporting ecosystem services in their town.

The process by which organic material is decomposed to form soil was considered

assessing how the public perceive the availability of maintenance soil structure and

fertility supporting ecosystem services and analyzed as shown in table 7. For this aspect

44% of the household heads were replayed as there is a decreasing situations on the

availability of maintenance soil structure and fertility supporting ecosystem services,

17% of the household heads were said that there is an increment on the availability of

maintenance soil structure and fertility supporting ecosystem services, but the rest 39% of

the household heads agreed as there is no changes on the availability of maintenance soil

structure and fertility supporting ecosystem services in their town.


46

The opinion of the public for the availability of photosynthesis supporting ecosystem

services was assessed and analyzed as presented in table 7. Here 54% of the household

heads were responded as there is a decreasing situation on the availability of

photosynthesis supporting ecosystem services, 15% of the household heads were

responded as there is an increasing situation on the availability of photosynthesis

supporting ecosystem services they reason out there is a plantation of tree seedlings along

the streets of the town and each household compounds that maximizes the availability of

green leaves, which are responsible for this process. And 30% of the household heads

were agreed as there is no change on the availability of photosynthesis supporting

ecosystem services in their town because there is the removal of native vegetation during

construction and replacement of the removed vegetation by the introduced new

ornamental plant species.

4.4.3.2 Public Perception on the Quality of Ecosystem Services

In this study a sensible characteristics of ecosystem services were considered under the

assessment of public perception for the changes on the quality of the 16 available services

of natural ecosystem at Kelle town.

The public opinion on the quality of food provisioning ecosystem services was assessed

and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 98 household heads feel as the quality of

food provisioning services of the ecosystem services are decreasing. They believe that the

removal of natural forests is the major causes; 12 household heads said that the quality of

food provisioning services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and the rest 28

household heads agreed as there is no changes on the quality of food provisioning

services of the ecosystem services in their town.

Public perception on the quality of fibber provisioning ecosystem services was assessed

and analyzed as shown in table 8 below. In this case 59 household heads feel as the

quality of fibber provisioning services of the ecosystem services are decreasing, 9

household heads said that the quality of fibber provisioning services of the ecosystem

services are increasing, and the rest 70 household heads were agreed as there is no

changes on the quality of fibber provisioning services of the ecosystem services in their


47

town. These respondents argued that the quality of fibber provisioning ecosystem

services are maintained by using the timber production technologies but the affordability

of fibber products are increased because of the cost of production is raised as the

availability of trees used for the timber production are rare nearby the town.

On the quality of biomass fuel provisioning ecosystem services the public perception was

assessed and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 73 household heads feel as the

quality of biomass fuel provisioning services of the ecosystem services are decreasing.

There is a considerable change in the fuel wood quality as the consumers (residents,

bakers, and hotels) are become more and more. In the other hands, 10 household heads

said that the quality of biomass fuel provisioning services of the ecosystem services are

increasing, and the rest 55 household heads were agreed as there is no changes on the

quality of biomass fuel provisioning services of the ecosystem services in their town

The perception of the public on the quality of fresh water provisioning ecosystem

services was assessed and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 80 household heads

feel as the quality of fresh water provisioning services of the ecosystem services are

decreasing. As Yohannes Basha said that the removal of forests from the mountain chains

causes the reduction in the iodine content of the fresh water supplied to the town. 26

household heads said that the quality of fresh water provisioning services of the

ecosystem services are increasing because the Kelle town water service office have trying

to treat the quality of clean water regularly, and the rest 32 household heads were agreed

as there is no changes on the quality of fresh water provisioning services of the



48

Table 8: Public opinion in the changes of ecosystem service quality at Kelle town

S. No Ecosystem Services Quality of the identified Ecosystem Services

Decrease Increase No change

1 Food provisioning 98 28 12

2 Fibber provisioning 59 70 9

3 Fresh water provisioning 80 32 26

4 Natural medicine provisioning 47 84 7

5 Biomass fuel provisioning 73 55 10

6 Water purification 83 39 16

7 Erosion controlling 64 62 12

8 Local climate regulating 79 47 12

9 Pest controlling 67 57 14

10 Waste assimilation 83 30 25

11 Aesthetic value 71 54 13

12 Existence value 75 45 18

13 Recreational value 73 51 14

14 Maintenance of soil structure

& fertility

63 67 8

15 Nutrient cycling 67 61 10

16 Photosynthesis 77 50 11

Source: HH survey, April 2014.

For the quality of natural medicine provisioning ecosystem services perception of the

public was assessed and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 47 household heads

feel as the quality of natural medicine provisioning services of the ecosystem services are

decreasing, 7 household heads said that the quality of natural medicine provisioning

services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and the rest 84 household heads were

agreed as there is no changes on the quality of natural medicine provisioning services of

the ecosystem in their town.

For the quality of climate regulating ecosystem services the public perception was



49

quality of climate regulating services of the ecosystem services are decreasing this is

because of the reduction in the natural vegetation and increased human activities that

degrades the nature, 12 household heads said that the quality of climate regulating

services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and the rest 47 household heads were

agreed as there is no changes on the quality of climate regulating services of the


For the quality of water purification ecosystem services the public perception was


quality of water purification services of the ecosystem are decreasing. They said that the

improper disposal of liquid waste and removal of vegetation from the water sources are

perceived as the causes for the reduction of water purification ecosystem services. 39

household heads said that the quality of water purification services of the ecosystem

services are increasing, and the rest 16 household heads were agreed as there is no change

on the quality of water purification services of the ecosystem services in their town.

The perception of the public on the quality of erosion regulating ecosystem services was


quality of erosion regulating services of the ecosystem services are decreasing. As the

iron roofed houses increases in the town the runoff discharge become increased and

speedy and strong to remove the bared land surface. This in turn reduces the ability of the

ecosystem to control the erosion. 12 household heads said that the quality of erosion

regulating services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and the rest 62 household

heads were agreed as there is no changes on the quality of erosion regulating services of

the ecosystem services in their town.

For the quality of waste treatment ecosystem services was assessed and analyzed as

shown in table 8. In this case 83 household heads feel as the quality of waste assimilation

regulating services of the ecosystem services are decreasing, 30 household heads said that

the quality of waste assimilation regulating services of the ecosystem services are

increasing, and the rest 25 household heads were agreed as there is no changes on the

quality of waste assimilation services of the ecosystem services in their town.


50

Public perception on the quality of pest regulating ecosystem services was assessed and

analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 67 household heads feel as the quality of pest

regulating services of the ecosystem services are decreasing, 57 household heads said that

the quality of pest regulating services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and the

rest 14 household heads were agreed as there is no changes on the quality of pest

regulating services of the ecosystem services in their town.

The opinion of the public for the quality of aesthetic value ecosystem services was

assessed and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 71 household heads were agreed

as the quality of aesthetic value cultural services of the ecosystem services are

decreasing, where as 54 household heads said that the quality of aesthetic value cultural

services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and 13 household heads were agreed as

there is no changes on the quality of aesthetic value cultural services of the ecosystem

services in their town.

Public perception for the quality of existence value ecosystem services was assessed and

analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 75 household heads were agreed as the quality

of existence value cultural services of the ecosystem services are decreasing, where as 45

household heads said that the quality of existence value cultural services of the ecosystem

services are increasing, and 18 household heads were agreed as there is no changes on the

quality of existence value cultural services of the ecosystem services in their town.

For the quality of recreational value ecosystem services the public perception was

assessed and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 73 household heads were agreed

as the quality of recreational value cultural services of the ecosystem services are

decreasing, where as 51 household heads said that the quality of recreational value

cultural services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and 14 household heads were

agreed as there is no changes on the quality of recreational value cultural services of the


For the quality of nutrient cycling supporting ecosystem services the perception of the

public was assessed and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 67 household heads

were agreed as the quality of nutrient cycling supporting services of the ecosystem


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services are decreasing, where as 61 household heads said that the quality of nutrient

cycling supporting services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and 10 household

heads were agreed as there is no changes on the quality of nutrient cycling supporting

services of the ecosystem services in their town.

For the quality of maintenance of soil structure and fertility supporting ecosystem

services the opinion of the public was assessed and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this

case 63 household heads were agreed as the quality of maintenance of soil structure and

fertility supporting services of the ecosystem services are decreasing, 67 household heads

said that the quality of maintenance of soil structure and fertility supporting services of

the ecosystem services are increasing. These respondents relate the soil fertility with the

use of chemical fertilizers. And 8 household heads were agreed as there is no change on

the quality of maintenance of soil structure and fertility supporting services of the


For the quality of photosynthesis supporting ecosystem services the public opinion was

assessed based on the availability of green photosynthetic organisms including green

plants, cyano bacteria and green algae and analyzed as shown in table 8. In this case 77

household heads were agreed as the quality of photosynthesis supporting services of the

ecosystem services are decreasing, 50 household heads said that the quality of

photosynthesis supporting services of the ecosystem services are increasing, and 11

household heads were agreed as there is no changes on the quality of photosynthesis

supporting services of the ecosystem services in their town.


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4.5 Interpretation and Discussion

4.6.1 Public Opinion on the Conditions and Trends of Ecosystem in Kelle

Urban ecosystems are especially important in providing services with direct impact on

human health and security such as air purification, noise reduction, urban cooling, and

run-off mitigation. As MEA, 2005 people seek multiple and different services from

ecosystems and thus perceive the condition of an ecosystem in relation to its ability to

provide the services desired. The four types of ecosystem services-provisioning,

regulating, cultural and supporting services were existing in and around the Kelle town at

a different levels some of them are found available and others are exist rarely. From the

assessment of public opinion on these ecosystem services through questionnaire,

interview and field observation on the surrounding of the town results show that the

habitat supporting ecosystem services are most observed. This means that habitats

provide everything that an individual plant or animal needs to survive: food; water; and

shelter. Each ecosystem provides different habitats that can be essential for a species’

lifecycle. Migratory species including birds and insects all depend upon different

ecosystems during their movements. This is also assured by 44.2 percent of the

household heads as presented in figure 10.

There is a river called ‘Bewaye’ in the southern edge of the town, which was very wide in

width and long distance as well as throughout the year flowing with more water discharge

on which the life of Kelle town residents were depended. But now the amount of water in

this river dramatically decreasing and serve as the solid waste disposal site for the town

as well as it is now known favourable site for diseases caused by sanitation problem such

as Deharia for those who settled nearby it. As observed during the field observation the

reduction of the water amount is due to the removal of those trees which are able to shade

the river and capable of extracting deep ground water to the surface by their roots were

replaced by tree species of with highly extracting the water of the river, less canopy, and

transpire more water to the atmosphere for example Eucalyptus spp.

The development activities of the town contributes to the reduction of air quality, fresh

water availability and quality, as well as aggravating the removal of vegetation and


53

Finding 1: The ability of the ecosystem to provide conditions for food, fibber,

biomass fuel, fresh water, biomass fuel and natural medicine; the ability of the

ecosystem to regulate local climate, erosion, water purification, pest, and waste

assimilation; the ability of the ecosystem to act as recreational, aesthetic value and

existence value and the ability of the ecosystem to support nutrient cycling,

maintenance of soil structure and fertility, and photosynthesis process is become

degraded (table 9 & figure 10).

clearing of natural forests to supply the construction material and other demands of

growing population. There is also overexploitation of land and water to meet the need of

the residents of Kelle town.

Removal of trees from the river

Eucalyptus trees planted on the river near Kelle 01 Kebele


54

Regulating ecosystem services and the provisioning ecosystem services are following the

habitat supporting ecosystem services. Each is also assured by 24.5 percent of the unit of

analysis. Regulating Services are the services that ecosystems provide by acting as

regulators. This is to say that the health ecosystems regulate the local climate, disease

controlling, erosion controlling, water purification, and waste assimilation. Trees provide

shade whilst forests influence rainfall and water availability both locally and regionally.

The street trees on the road sides of some parts of the town play a great role in adsorbing

the dusts from the air during dry season, hence the road infrastructure of the town is not

paved or asphalt road. Trees within residential compounds and the green area around the

telecommunication office also serve as a sink for the carbon dioxides released by the

vehicles within the town. However, the other regulating services like erosion regulating,

flood regulating, and waste water treatment are damaged by the process; that is why in

the south eastern parts of the town (under kebele 02) are prone to flood in every rainy

season. And the northern part of the town, which serve as the solid waste disposal site for

the old town (Maksegno and Konso Sefere) has lost its ability to assimilate waste. As

shown in the photo below there is degradation of land (intensive erosion cases) within the

town.

Soil degradation (soil erosion cases) at around Saturday Market, Kelle

The provisioning services are ecosystem services that describe the material or energy

outputs from ecosystems of the study area. Ecosystems provide the conditions for

growing food. Food comes principally from managed agro-ecosystems but fresh water

ecosystems or forests also provide food for human consumption. Ecosystems provide a

great diversity of materials for construction and fuel including wood, bio-fuels and plant

oils that are directly derived from wild and cultivated plant species. Vegetation and


55

forests influence the quantity of water available locally. As the results show that the

availability of different provisioning services of the ecosystem in and around Kelle town

are influenced by human activities. Because humans continuously making asters on the

natural ecosystem to meet the need of the alarmingly growing population and other

economic activities like urbanization, the existing ecosystem services are becoming

diminished.

Although ecosystems and natural landscapes have been the source of inspiration for much

of our art, culture and increasingly for science, in and around Kelle town the cultural

services of ecosystem are already lost by the urbanization process. This is because of the

loss of open spaces, which the elders have been used to meet to decide on the cultural

issues; and the green spaces used for recreational purpose were lost by the expansion of

the tow. These situations of the four ecosystem services types are shown in graph 2 and

table 6 below.

Figure 10: The availability level of ecosystem services at Kelle town

Source: Field survey, March 2014.

25.4 25.4

5.1

44.2

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

provisioning reulating cultural supporting

Percent


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Table 9: Summary of the public perception on ecosystem services availability and quality

Service Status Notes

Provisioning Services Moderately

changing

The ability of the ecosystem to provide

conditions for food, fibber, biomass fuel, fresh

water, biomass fuel and natural medicine is

moderately damaged.

Regulating Services Moderately

changing

The ability of the ecosystem to regulate air

quality, local climate, flood, erosion, water,

pest, disease, pollination; and waste

assimilation is moderately damaged.

Cultural Services Mostly

changing

The ability of the ecosystem to act as

recreational and ecotourism, aesthetic value

and existence value is very highly affected.

Supporting Services Less

changing

The ability of the ecosystem to support

nutrient cycling, water cycling, maintenance

of soil structure and fertility, primary

production and photosynthesis process is less

affected or more available.

Source: From the result of field survey, April 2014

4.6.2 The Perception of the public on the Types, Sources and Functions of

Ecosystem services

The urban history of ‘Kelle’ town dates from 1941. During this time there were a

settlement of 170 people has built 85 residential houses at ‘Gotte’ village. But the actual

process has properly began in 1977 when the town of Kelle was established, the so called

‘Maksegno’ of three small safari-Gotte, Konso and Kanbara, in area located at the foot of

mountain chains to the Northwest of ‘Gotte’ nearby the now St. Gorge church. At the

time there was no any urban infrastructure-the residential houses and the administration

office, grouped but with no clear core, were built of wood, grass and mud some stone


57

Finding 2: There are 16 types of ecosystem services including food, fibber, fresh

water, natural medicine provisioning; water purification, erosion and pest

controlling, waste assimilation and local regulating; aesthetic, existence and

recreational values; maintenance of soil structure and fertility, nutrient cycling and

photosynthesis. The sources for these ecosystem services are trees, fibber plants,

crops, springs and rivers, natural forests, urban agriculture, nearby rural areas and

the swampy areas. Carbon sequestration, remove harmful substances from the air,

timber, clean water, flavor food, etc. are identified functions of the ecosystem

services in Kelle town.

traced. Roads were inexistent and there were only trails leading to the east (Bitti), west

(Torkisso), south (Dallale) and north (Matsa) rural villages.

Around 1995 the settlement underwent a large expansion towards Northern and Eastern

rural villages, especially towards ‘Alamo Baka’, and Bitti. This progressive expansion

was maintained and deepened toward the east. Currently, the urbanization of the town has

been continued and cover almost 840 hectare (8.4 square kilo meters) officially but in

some sides especially the so called ‘Sing Kella’, and the whole ‘Korratte’ rural villages

of coffee and fruit lands.

The habitats, biological or system properties or processes of ecosystems provide various

ecosystem good like forest goods, and services like waste assimilation or treatment to

humans, directly or indirectly, to fulfill human welfare. These are simply as ecosystem

services. Kelle town was bounded by different forest, water sources and other wild life

resources from which the residents of the town obtain different benefits in their day to

day life activities.

But now there are destructions on these natural resources resulting in reduction on the

quality and availability of the services they obtain from it. During field observation it was

identified as there is poor in quality and removal of the forest ecosystem. For instance the

Cordia affiricana, Pear fruit trees and other fruit trees, Tide, and different Viuscious spp.

were replaced by Eucalyptus spp. as shown in photograph below. This is because of (1)

the replacement of the indigenous tree species by the exotic, which has different

physiology, canopy and water and nutrient consumption as well as completely different


58

purpose of use. (2) the expansion of the urbanization exacerbates the forest removing

activities by the peri-urban residents to the use as a construction material and fuel wood

consumption of the town, and to expand the crop land in order to supply the increasing

food demand of the urban society as well as to earn more money from their production of

food and timber and wooded wall.

Removal of natural forest and Eucalyptus tree plantation west of Kelle

The sources of the identified 16 ecosystem services are trees and other fibber plants like

cotton and sisal, agro-ecosystem (cultivated crops and field fruits), highland springs and

river, natural forests and urban agriculture, the nearby rural areas, swampy areas nearby

the town, soil microbes, grasses, street trees and mountains. The sources of ecosystem

services for Kelle town mostly are the nearby rural areas; however the different

development activity in town keep continuing to consuming the forest ecosystem, the

water ecosystem; and the changing the land use and land cover types of the town.

They therefore, are responsible for carbon sequestration and cooling the air temperature

through transpiration and shade, consume crop pests, degrade organic waste, prevents soil

loss and siltation of water ways; hold soil in place thereby preventing landslides, human

food and forage for domestic animals and feed for wild animals, clean water for drinking,

for other domestic consumption and irrigation water and remove harmful chemicals from

water body.


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4.6.3 Public perception on the Changes Observed in Ecosystem Services

and its Drivers

In this study the changes observed in the ecosystem services was assessed considering

about 16 ecosystem services which are identified as currently available in the town. As

the millennium ecosystem assessment report (2005) everyone in the world depends on

earth’s ecosystem and the services they provide, such as food, water, fuel wood, disease

and pest management, climate and erosion regulation, spiritual fulfilment and aesthetic

enjoyment. In the case of Kelle town, over the past 19 years, humans have damaged these

ecosystem services more rapidly and extensively than any comparative period in the

experience of the town, largely to meet rapidly growing demands for food, fresh water,

timber and fuel.

The major problems associated with the management of Kelle town’s ecosystems are

already causing significant harm to some group of people, particularly the urban poor.

According to this study (Assessment of the public perception on ecosystem services) all

the assessed 16 ecosystem services are being degraded or used unsustainably, including

fresh water, and pest control as summarized in table 10.


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Finding 3: The ecosystem services are being damaged by the human activities to meet

the needs of the residents demand for food, fibber, and fuel wood, etc. and theses

degradation of ecosystem services are derived by growth of urban population, urban

expansion and unsustainable urban development (table 10).

Table 10: The public perception on the changes in ecosystem services and its drivers

Ecosystem Service Trend of change Drivers

Food Decreasing Increased use of chemical fertilizer

Fibber Decreasing Over cutting of trees with no plantation

Fresh water Decreasing Water pollution due to poor management

and increased consumption of water

resources; industries (coffee processing)

Biomass fuel Decreasing Over consumption of wood trees

Natural medicine Increasing Introduction chemical medicines

Climate regulating Decreasing GHGs emission (CH4, CO2)

Water purification Decreasing Waste generation and disposal

Erosion regulating Decreasing Reduced vegetation cover

Waste assimilation Decreasing Over consumption and waste generation

Pest controlling Decreasing Urban pollution, population dynamics

Aesthetic value Decreasing Degradation of traditional culture

Existence value Decreasing Degradation of biodiversity

Recreational value Decreasing Degradation of parks, open spaces

Nutrient cycling Decreasing Land use changes

Maintenance of soil

structure and fertility

Decreasing Reduction of soil microorganisms

Photosynthesis Decreasing Reduction of forest and vegetation

Source: Results of the field observation and household survey, April 2014;

As it was summarized in table 7 above ecosystem services such as fresh water and food

provisioning, water purification, local climate regulation, waste assimilation, erosion

regulating, existence value, photosynthesis and nutrient cycling are degraded. The drivers


61

of these change could be forest clearing, increased water withdrawals from the rivers and

springs, increased emission of carbon dioxide gas from vehicles and methane gas

emission from the coffee processing industries; and the degradation of traditional culture,

dust from the unpaved roads, over consumption of ecological resources and increased

waste generation to meet the growing demands of population.

Obviously, urbanization process is a means for the changes of the natural ecology

through changing the non built environment to build up environment to meet the

increasing demand of the booming urban population. Therefore, this process needs more

land to support the urban residential, commercial and industrial activities, in turn

increasing the economic development of the municipality. The forest ecosystem, surface

water (rivers, springs) ecosystem, the open spaces within the town are becoming

damaged, thus the associated ecosystem services are then declining and an unable to

function as required.


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CHAPTER FIVE

3. Conclusion and Recommendations

5.1 Conclusion

The urban history of Kelle town dates from 1941. During this time 170 people have built

85 residential houses at ‘Gotte’ village. Latter in 1995 the town began to expand

progressively to the east ward through removing natural forest ecosystem and damaging

or invading the farm land of its peri-urban villages. The town currently occupy about 8.4

square kilo meter of area with 11,009 residents (Kelle Municipal annual report, 2010).

The urbanization process in this town largely exerting pressure on the ecosystem services

in and around the town. In this study the public perception on the ecosystem services of

Kelle town were assessed.

5.1.1 Opinion of the Public on the Conditions and Trends of Ecosystem in Kelle

The public opinion on changes in the ecosystem services was assessed considering the 16

identified ecosystem services. In the case of Kelle town, over the past 19 years, humans

have damaged these ecosystem services more rapidly and extensively than any

comparative period in the experience of the town, largely to meet rapidly growing

demands for food, fresh water, timber and fuel. According to this study (Assessment of

the public perception on ecosystem services) all the assessed 16 ecosystem services are

being changed or used unsustainably, including fresh water, and pest control.

These ecosystem changes are being aggravated by the increased use of chemical

fertilizers that increase the crop production at the same time pollute fresh water sources,

declining of diversity of species due to the introduction of species that are homogenous,

deforestation and removal of vegetation, urban pollution and CO2 and CH4 emission from

vehicles and coffee processing industries, overconsumption of water and land waste

generation and disposal, and unsustainable urban development.


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5.1.2 Public perception on Types, Sources and Functions of Ecosystem Services

The habitats, biological or system properties or processes of ecosystems provide various

ecosystem good like forest goods, and services like waste assimilation or treatment to

humans, directly or indirectly, to fulfil human welfare. During the last 19 years since

1995, the ecosystem services of Kelle town has greatly affected by the poor and rapid

urban expansion. Most of the people thought that the availability of different ecosystem

services become diminished considerably due to the unmanaged expansion of the town

towards the naturally vegetate and planted forest and crop lands in its peri-urban villages.

The sampled household heads said that the four types of ecosystem services-provisioning,

regulating, cultural and supporting services were existing in and around the Kelle town at

a different levels some of them are found available and others are exist rarely. From the

assessment of public perception on ecosystem services through questionnaire, interview

and field observation results show that food, fibber, fresh water, natural medicine and

biomass fuel provisioning; water purification, erosion and pest controlling, waste

assimilation and local climate regulating; aesthetic, existence and recreational value;

maintenance of soil structure and fertility, nutrient cycling and photosynthesis supporting

ecosystem services are identified. But these services of the ecosystem are being

diminished due to the human activities. The town keeps expanding to the nearby natural

ecosystems, which are the sources of different ecosystem services for the town through

increasing the deforestation activities, fostering the over extraction of water from river

and springs and reducing the quality of ecosystem services within and around the town.

Most of the ecosystem services sources are from the nearby rural areas and somewhat

from the street trees and green areas in the town. The ecosystem has functions in

sequestrating carbon, removing harmful substances from the air, timber production, clean

water supply, and flavor food, etc.


64

5.1.3 Public Perception on the Changes Observed in the ecosystem Services

and its Drivers

The dependence of urban development at kelle town on an ecosystem services is likely to

be relevant if no cost-effective substitute exists for these services. A substitute for an

ecosystem service could include a manufactured product or physical structure that

provides a similar service. However, the assessment of the perception of the public in the

town shows that all the assessed ecosystem services are being identified as strongly

changed and then relevant ecosystem services.

The drivers of these change could be forest clearing, increased water withdrawals from

the rivers and springs, distribution of species in the area becoming homogeneous as a

result of the introduction of species, increased emission of carbon dioxide gas from

vehicles and methane gas emission from the coffee processing industries; and the

degradation of traditional culture, dust from the unpaved roads, over consumption of

ecological resources and increased waste generation to meet the growing demands of

population. Therefore, the urban development in the town needs more land to support the

urban residential, commercial and industrial land development, in turn increasing the

economic development of the municipality. The forest and surface water (rivers, springs)

ecosystems, the open spaces within the town are becoming damaged, thus the associated

ecosystem services are then degraded and an unable to function as required.

5.2 Recommendations/Suggestions

Humanity is increasingly urban, but continues to depend on Nature for its survival. Cities

are dependent on the ecosystems beyond the city limits, but also benefit from internal

urban ecosystems. According to United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP)

(1999) ecosystem services can be available on the local or global scale according to the

scope of the problem they are connected to and the possibility of transferring the service

from where it is produced to the city where humans benefit from it. In order to maximize

the benefits of urban development and minimize its negative externalities on the

ecosystem services, the following options need to be considered:


65

The promotion of urban greeneries needs to be strengthened. This may include

checking the conversion of agricultural and forest lands in to urban land use by

introducing land saving construction designs and enhancing the effective

utilization of inner city land, and protecting and developing greeneries;

Create awareness to the whole public in the town about the benefits of the

services of natural ecosystem in their day to day life activity;

Integrate ecosystem services into spatial planning and urban management in order

to secure the future human well-being;

Urban planners and managers could acknowledge that densification and

agglomeration correlate positively with reduced resource use per capita;

Urban planners would understand, identify and assess the ecosystem services that

operate in the city so that it is feasible and practical to safeguard these services

and secure these benefits for present and future urban residents;

Improving awareness of ecosystem services and recognition of their value among

all stakeholders required for more balanced consideration of environmental

impacts and empower people to make decision based on a more intimate

understanding of the trade-offs with environmental benefits.

Integrating forest development projects in the urban development planning and

managements to maintain the fresh water sources of the town. This is because the

fresh water sources of Kelle town are mainly springs from the mountains sited in

the west corridor of the town.


66

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I. Questionnaire provided for the households

Dear respondents:

This questionnaire seeks to ascertain information from key individuals like you in aid of an

academic study for the fulfillment of MA degree in Urban Environment and Climate Change

Management from Ethiopian Civil Service University. As the part of my studies, I am

carrying out a research to document the Impacts of Urbanization Process on Natural

Ecosystem Services at ‘Kelle’ town, the capital of Amaro Special Woreda. This study is

only for academic purpose. So, I kindly request you to answer the entire questions below to

the best of your information. Please circle the letter/number of your choice to show your

response, and write down your own opinion, reason and suggestions in the space provided.

Your information will be handled and stored with the highest order of confidentiality. Please

don’t write your name anywhere on the questions. I would like to say thank you in advance

for devoting your time to complete this research questionnaire. Thanks in advance for your cooperation!!

I. Background of the respondents

Fill the answer in the blank space or encircle the number of your choice.

1. Address Region __________ Wereda ____________ Tow Kebele .

2. Age: __________ Sex: 1. Male 2. Female

3. Marital Status: 1. Single 2. In relation 3. Married 4. Divorced

4. Religion: 1. Protestant 2. Orthodox 3. Muslim 4. Others, Specify _________

5. Level of education: 1. Illiterate 2. Read and write

3. Primary (1-8) 4. Secondary (9-12)

5. Preparatory (11-12) 6. Others Specify ____________

II. Participation in the Urbanization Process of the Town

1. Are you aware of the urbanization process in your town? 1. Yes 2. No

2. If yes, how? 1. Through mass orientation 2. Through formal training or seminar

3. Both 4. Others, specify_________________

3. What was your reaction when you are participating in the orientation/training/seminar?

1. Agreed without objection 2. First objected but finally convinced to accept

4. Did you participate in decision-making process in the implementation of 6urbanization

process in your town? 1. Yes 2. No

6 Urbanization process refers to the activity of developing (economical growth) and

expanding (Physical growth) the already existing town


5. If yes, what are the benefits you obtained from participating in decision-making (more

than one answers possible)?

1. Raise own need 2. Express own opinion

3. Created close relationship to municipality 4. Nothing

III. The current conditions of natural ecosystem services at ‘Kelle’ town

1. Which natural ecosystem services types are more available in you town more than one

answers possible)?

1. Provisioning services (food, fiber, fresh water, fuel wood, etc)

2. Regulating services (temperature regulating, air regulating, water regulating, etc)

3. Cultural services (Recreation and ecotourism, Existence and ethical values, etc)

4. Supporting services (primary production, nutrient & water recycling, etc)

2. From where does your town receive these natural ecosystem services?

1. Nearby rural areas 3. Urban greenery

2. Urban forestry 4. Other, specify _______________________

3. Do you think that these 7natural ecosystem services are functioning well in your town?

1. Yes 2. No

4. If no, how?

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

5. What indicators do you have detected to the changes in these natural ecosystem services in

your town?

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

6. Which natural ecosystem services are affected at what extent by the ongoing rapid

urbanization process in your town?

Ecosystem services types Extent of the effects

Less moderately highly Very highly Provisioning Regulating Cultural Supporting

7 Natural ecosystem services are the benefits that people get from nature. Examples

include fresh water, timber, climate regulation, recreation, and aesthetic values


7. Which ecosystem services are 8relevant in your town with respect to the urbanization

process? (Please mark ‘X’ to your choice and give rank to each natural ecosystem services

based on their relevance).

S. No

Ecosystem services Level of relevance ra

nk less Moderate High Very high

1 Food 2 Fiber 3 Biomass fuel 4 Fresh water 5 Genetic resources 6 Bio-chemicals, natural medicines & pharmaceuticals 7 Air quality regulation 8 Climate regulation 9 Water regulation 10 Erosion regulation 11 Water purification & waste treatment 12 Disease regulation 13 Pest regulation 14 Pollination 15 Natural hazard regulation 16 Ethical value 17 Existence value 18 Recreation & ecotourism 19 Nutrient cycling 20 Soil formation 21 Primary production 22 Photosynthesis 23 Water cycling

IV. Changes in the natural ecosystem services of the town

1. How do you evaluate the current land use in your town due to the rapid urbanization

process?

1. Changing 2. Remain as it was

2. If changing, how?

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

3. How do you evaluate the land cover of your town with respect to the urbanization process?

1. More forest covers 3. Bare land surface

2. Less forest covers 4. Increased built up environment

8 Relevant natural ecosystem services are natural ecosystem services which have no a

cost-effective substitute (manufactured products or physical structures).


4. What happening in the forest ecosystem in your town?

1. Deforestation 3. Reforestation

2. 9Afforesting 4. No change

5. What happening on the water resources of your town?

1. Decrease in volume & quality 3. Increase in quality & decrease in volume

2. Increasing in volume & quality 4. Decrease in quality & increase in volume

6. What happening on the quality of the air in your town?

1. Decrease in volume & quality 3. Increase in quality & decrease in volume

2. Increasing in volume & quality 4. Decrease in quality & increase in volume

7. How do you evaluate the changes on the natural ecosystem services in both availability

and quality in your town due to the rapid urbanization? (Please marks ‘X’ on your choice

for both the availability and quality of the listed natural ecosystem services).

Ecosystem services Availability Quality

Decrease Increase No change Decrease Increase No change

Food Fiber Biomass fuel Fresh water Genetic resources Bio-chemicals, natural medicines & pharmaceuticals

air quality regulation Climate regulation Water regulation Erosion regulation Water purification & waste treatment

Disease regulation Pest regulation Pollination Natural hazard regulation Ethical value Existence value Recreation & ecotourism Nutrient cycling Soil formation Primary production Photosynthesis Water cycling

9 Afforesting: is to convert land not previously forested into forest by planting trees.


II. Guideline for Interviewing Key Informants

Region ______________ Woreda _____________ Institution/club _____________________

Occupation___________________ Position _______________________________________

Age _____ Sex ______ Marital Status __________ Level of Education__________________

1. What are the development institutions/organizations available in the area? Which are in

support of the urbanization process and management of its impacts on the natural

ecosystem services? In what area do they support (credit, loan, training, awareness

creation, etc.)?

2. What do you think is the objectives of urbanization in your town? How it would be

important to the development of your town?

3. What benefits does have the urbanization process in your town? Probe it with respect to

the three pillars of sustainable development (economic, social and environmental).

4. What do you think about the ecological, especially ecosystem, dimension of urbanization

process at ‘Kelle’ town?

5. Is there any change in the prevalence of diseases due to the rapid urbanization? Probe it as

newly occurred increased infection rate, etc.

6. What impact (positive/negative) does urbanization pose to your organization’s goal…..?

7. What strategies you can suggest to the ongoing urbanization process in your town to not

harm the natural ecosystem services in your town?

8. Discuss what influence does have urbanization on your client’s attitude towards your

organization’s service and the culture and social linkages of the society as whole?


III. Check list for collecting the secondary data

Region ___________ Woreda _____________ Institution/club ________________________

1. Does the town has a master plan ______________________________________________

2. Does the plan includes the zoning of the town for:

1. Industry 4. Commercial

2. Residential 5. Recreational

3. Institutions 6. Green belt

3. Does the plan have river buffer zones?

4. Is there available green area, parks and open spaces?

5. The total administrative boundary area of the town is ____________________________

6. The total coverage of natural forest within the boundary of the town ________________

7. Number of rivers and springs that provide water for the consumptions of the town ______

8. The discharge rate of these rivers and springs __________________________________

9. Source of fuel wood for the town ____________________________________________

10. Source of fresh water for the town ___________________________________________

11. Sources of construction material for the town __________________________________

12. Sources of food for the town _______________________________________________

13. The estimated fresh water consumption of the town cubic meters per year ____________

14. The estimated food consumption of the town tonnes per year ______________________

15. The estimated fuel wood consumption of the town tonnes per year ___________________

16. The estimated timber consumption of the town tonnes per year _____________________

17. The estimated removal of natural forest tree for the consumption of the town hectares per

year__________________________________________________________________

18. The reasons for the increased removal of natural forests ___________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

19. The prevalence rate of airborne diseases _______________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

20. The prevalence rate of waterborne diseases _____________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

asealex. thesis report-2014 - edited

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