Bridging global evidence with local needs: a systematic review to inform climate and biodiversity strategies in Malawi

Abstract

This systematic review synthesised global scientific evidence (n = 54 studies) to extract potentially transferable strategies for addressing climate change and biodiversity loss in Malawi. Guided by the Protocol, Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, Analysis, and Reporting (PSALSAR) framework, this review analysed research published between 2014 and 2024, with a focus on identifying interventions from socio-ecological contexts comparable to Malawi. Despite the global nature of the literature, only 7 % of the studies focused on Africa, and none specifically on Malawi, revealing a significant geographic evidence gap. Through contextual mapping, the review highlights promising approaches, including community-based adaptation, integrated governance, and renewable energy transitions. While the insights are preliminary, they offer a foundation for future empirical validation in Malawi and similar low-income, biodiversity-rich countries. The study contributes to knowledge localisation and identifies priorities for interdisciplinary research, community engagement, and policy alignment. Future research should refine these strategies and evaluate their applicability across diverse contexts to support global efforts in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity.