Justin Dossou | Forest ecology | Environmental Education Leadership

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Justin Dossou | Forest ecology | Environmental Education Leadership

Research Assistant at Laboratory of Study and Forest Research (Lerf), University of Parakou,Benin

Justin Dossou is a dedicated environmental consultant and researcher from Benin, specializing in forest conservation and sustainable management. Born on June 8, 1989, in Adakplamè, he belongs to the Mahi ethnic group and currently resides in Parakou, Benin. With a passion for ecological restoration, he collaborates with the Forestry Studies and Research Laboratory (LERF) at the University of Parakou. His expertise lies in tropical forest flora identification, forest inventory, and conservation techniques for endangered species. Over the years, he has participated in numerous research projects and scientific meetings, contributing significantly to the sustainable management of forest ecosystems. Through various field studies, he actively supports initiatives aimed at balancing development with environmental preservation. His work focuses on preserving biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of deforestation while advocating for urban forestry to enhance community well-being.

professional profiles📖

Education 🎓

Justin Dossou holds a Professional Master’s degree in Development and Management of Natural Resources with a specialization in Forestry Sciences and Techniques from the Faculty of Agronomy, University of Parakou (2020). Prior to that, he earned a Professional License in Development and Management of Natural Resources (2016) from the same institution. His academic foundation began with a Baccalaureate in Secondary Education in Biology and Geology (2008) and a Brevet d’Etude du Premier Cycle (2008). He also obtained a Primary Study Certificate in 2004. His academic journey has been complemented by hands-on research, including grants from ITTO (2020) and IDEA WILD (2021) for projects on the sustainable management of tropical forests. His educational background has equipped him with skills in ecological research, forest conservation, and community-based resource management, making him a key contributor to environmental sustainability in Benin.

work Experience💼

Justin Dossou has extensive experience in environmental management and forestry conservation. As an individual consultant collaborating with LERF at the University of Parakou, he has participated in key research projects. His fieldwork includes a 2019 inventory of park management in Northern Benin, a 2020 survey on cashew plantations, and supervising landscaping activities in Natitingou (2022). He has contributed to climate resilience projects, such as the ICT-based Climate Services Initiative (2022), and has been involved in impact assessments for environmental conservation. In 2023, he participated in evaluating the Pro-Cashew project and assessing the effects of a modern high school construction on forest cover. His hands-on expertise spans forest inventory, species identification, ecological monitoring, and conservation planning. Through his professional endeavors, he actively engages in balancing developmental needs with environmental conservation, ensuring sustainable forest resource management across Benin.

Research Focus

Justin Dossou’s research revolves around sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and ecological restoration. His studies focus on identifying and preserving endangered tropical species, developing optimal nursery production conditions, and assessing the impact of human activities on forest regeneration. His research on Pterocarpus erinaceus, Afzelia africana, and Khaya senegalensis contributes to conservation strategies that promote sustainable harvesting and species survival. He also investigates the role of urban forestry in enhancing public well-being and the effectiveness of reforestation techniques. Additionally, his research explores agroforestry’s role in ecosystem resilience, particularly in mitigating climate change effects. Through multidisciplinary approaches, he seeks to bridge scientific research and practical conservation efforts, ensuring a balance between development and ecological sustainability. His findings have been published in international journals, reinforcing his contribution to global environmental conservation efforts.

Awards & Honors🏆 

Justin Dossou has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to forestry research and conservation. In 2020, he received the prestigious ITTO grant for his research on the restoration of tropical forests with Afzelia africana, Pterocarpus erinaceus, and Khaya senegalensis in Benin. This project aimed at mitigating anthropogenic disturbances through ecological reconstitution strategies. In 2021, he secured the IDEA WILD grant, focusing on the impact of mutilation on vegetative development and reproductive dynamics of key forest species. His participation in international scientific conferences, including those at the University of Parakou (2022) and Kara University (2023), highlights his growing influence in the field. His academic and field contributions have cemented his reputation as a leading expert in natural resource management and conservation in West Africa. His work continues to support initiatives that enhance sustainable forest practices and biodiversity conservation.

skills

Justin Dossou possesses a diverse skill set in environmental research and forestry management. His expertise includes forest inventory, species identification, ecological monitoring, and conservation techniques for endangered species. He is proficient in urban forestry planning and the development of green spaces for ecological sustainability. His skills in GIS mapping, data analysis, and ecological modeling allow him to contribute to spatial assessments of forest cover changes. He has experience in community-based conservation projects, supporting local stakeholders in sustainable resource management. His knowledge of multivariate ecological analysis, field research methodologies, and scientific communication makes him a well-rounded researcher. Additionally, his ability to secure research funding and grants highlights his competence in project development and management. His collaborative work with international organizations and participation in scientific conferences demonstrate his ability to integrate research findings into practical environmental solutions.

Conclusion

Justin Dossou is an outstanding candidate in environmental research and conservation, with a solid track record in forestry, biodiversity, and ecological sustainability. However, for the Environmental Education Leadership Award, he would benefit from further demonstrating leadership in education-focused initiatives, policy advocacy, and public engagement in environmental awareness programs. If the award committee values scientific excellence with emerging leadership in education, he is a strong contender. However, if the focus is on direct leadership in environmental education programs and community-driven initiatives, he may need to further develop that aspect of his career .

 

📚Publications to Noted

“Effects of leaf harvesting intensity on fruiting processes in three fodder tree species in the West African Savannah”

Authors: Justin Dossou, Towanou Houetchegnon, Christine A.I.N. Ouinsavi, Terence N. Suinyuy

Journal: Forest Ecology and Management

Year: 2025

Citations: Not yet available

“Effects of Fire, Logging, and Pruning on the Ecological Structure of Afzelia Africana, Khaya Senegalensis and Pterocarpus Erinaceus Populations in the African Savannah”

Author: Justin Dossou

Type: Preprint

Year: 2023

Citations: Not yet available

“CARACTERISATION DES PRATIQUES CULTURALES ET DE GESTION DES PLANTATIONS D’ANACARDIERS (Anacardium occidentale L.) AU BENIN”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: Agronomie Africaine Spécial

Year: 2022

“Traditional uses of African rosewood (Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir. Fabaceae) through the sociolinguistic groups and the pathways of conservation and sustainable management in Benin”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: International Journal of Biodiversity and Conservation

Year: 2021

“Aptitude à la multiplication de Pseudocedrela kotschyi (Schweinf.) Harms par graines et par boutures de tige et de racine au Bénin”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences

Year: 2020

“Establishing optimal conditions for nursery production and domestication of Crassocephalum crepidioides (Benth.) S. Moore.”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: Journal of Tropical Biology and Conservation

Year: 2019

“Effect of cuttings diameter and indol acetic acid on rooting of Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir. stem cuttings”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: International Journal of Agroforestry and Silviculture

Year: 2019