Socio-ecological factors contributing to the use of slash-and-burn as cropland preparation practice in Burkina Faso

Biomass burning (BB) is a widely practiced agricultural method for clearing cropland and a major source of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, contributing to climate change (CC). Understanding the key socio-ecological factors influencing BB use and farmers' knowledge of CC is crucial for making decisions on sustainable land management. This study aims to: (i) assess the socio-ecological factors influencing the use of biomass burning, (ii) examine farmers' knowledge of the effects of biomass burning on CC, and (iii) identify local alternative practices to reduce BB. A total of 204 smallholder farmers were interviewed across two contrasting climatic zones, Sudanian and Sudano-Sahelian, in Burkina Faso using semi-structured interviews. Our findings revealed that 47.55% of farmers use fire for land preparation, with cropland age (β = -0.955, p < 0.05), young cropland, and gender, specifically men (β = -0.733, p < 0.01), being the primary socio-ecological factors influencing the use of this practice. Smallholders reported that faster field clearance (41%) and improved soil fertility (23%) were the main reasons for adopting biomass burning. Our results also highlight that education level (β = -0.569, p < 0.05) and access to extension services (β = -1.711, p < 0.05) are the most significant factors influencing farmers' awareness of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions, respectively. Local alternative practices, such as biomass mulching and composting, have been identified as replacements for BB. Raising awareness among farmers about the environmental impact of BB presents a viable mitigation strategy.