Abstract

This study assesses the impact of deforestation on disaster risks in the study area. The research sought to examine public awareness, perceptions, and responses to deforestation and associated risks in the study area. The study targeted residents with experience to environmental issues caused by deforestation, enabled a focused and context-specific investigation into the forest loss. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. A sample of 385 respondents was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Communities severely impacted by forest loss were purposively chosen, and within these, stratified random sampling ensured diverse representation based on demographics such as age and occupation. Simple random sampling was then used within each stratum to select participants. Data were collected using structured questionnaires that included both closed-ended and Likert-scale questions. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviations. The study found that deforestation in Enugu significantly determine weak enforcement of forest-related policies, poor public awareness, and illegal logging as major drivers of forest degradation. Respondents recommended strategies such as afforestation programs, strict law enforcement, community-based forest management, and public education to mitigate forest loss and reduce vulnerability. In line with the findings, the study recommended the need for strengthened enforcement of environmental and forestry laws within Enugu Local Government Area and the implementation of community-based forest management strategies.