摘要
This study evaluates a Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) certified biofuel investment in northern Sierra Leone, assessing the livelihood impacts of large-scale agricultural investment (LSAI). Surveys were conducted with 882 households in the LSAI and control areas, statistical analysis of which shows farmers in the LSAI have experienced a reduction in land used for food production, lower yields, and increased expenditure on external labour. On the other hand, analysis of LSAI-impacted villages shows overall increased income, increased spending on food consumption, and a perceived improvement in food and water security. Inequalities are apparent between landowners and tenants over the level of increased income, and between men and women over access to wage labour. The findings show livelihoods are transitioning towards a more wage-dependent structure, and support the idea that international guidelines can help to mitigate negative impacts of LSAI on local livelihoods. It is recommended that future efforts are focused on ensuring workers are protected in the case of operational shut-down, and the authors raise some fundamental questions regarding the choice of LSAI over direct investment in local food production systems.