Journal #J-02/2000
Agricultural Expansion and Deforestation: Modelling the Impact of Population, Market Forces and Property Rights
Arild Angelsen
Department of Economics & Social Sciences Agricultural University of Norway PO Box 5033, N-1432 Ås, Norway http://www.nlh.no/ior/ e-mail: arild.angelsen@ior.nlh.no

Angelsen, A. (2000): "Agricultural Expansion and Deforestation: Modelling the Impact of Population, Market Forces and Property Rights", Journal of Development Economics, 58(1):185-218.

Abstract:
This paper compares four different modelling approaches to agricultural expansion and deforestation, and explores the implications of assumptions about household objectives, labour market, and property regime. A major distinction is made between population and market based explanations. Many popular policy prescriptions are based on the population approach, assuming subsistence behaviour and limited market integration. Within a more realistic market approach, well-intentioned policies such as agricultural intensification programmes may boost deforestation. Many forest frontiers are also characterized by forest clearing giving farmers land rights. Deforestation becomes an investment and a title establishment strategy. Land titling and credit programmes may therefore increase deforestation.

Key words: Agriculture, deforestation, population, property rights, open access.

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