Use of Traditional and Cultural Tools in Conservation

In time past, local people have several traditional methods and practices through which their forest, wildlife and fisheries resources were conserved. Some of these practices continue to exist in few places in tropical Africa,... [ view full abstract ]

In time past, local people have several traditional methods and practices through which their forest, wildlife and fisheries resources were conserved. Some of these practices continue to exist in few places in tropical Africa, Asia, South America and other parts of the world thereby regulating interactions between human and their natural environment. Even in places where people suffer abject poverty, traditional or cultural belief has provided necessary shield for forest, wildlife and water resources. Observations of conservation status of forest, wild animal or trees on which such traditional or cultural beliefs, norm and taboos are practised reveal their potential as incentives to current efforts in conservation of resources in local communities. However, modernisation is fast eroding these beliefs in developing countries. Also, effort towards documentation of these belief systems as an approach to conservation is inadequate with no adequate effort undertaken to preserve these local conservation tools through integration with modern values. In this session, we shall identify and document traditional or cultural beliefs, norm and taboos that serve as tools for protection and conservation of natural resources, as well as discuss their possible scientific and systematic integration with modern conservation strategies.