Research on Community-Based Conservation

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Communication / Editing / Research / Writing

For my GEOG 310: Environment and Sustainability class, I examined the effectiveness of community-based conservation (CBC) compared to protectionist models. I argued that CBC better supports Indigenous communities by involving them in conservation efforts, providing both ecological and economic benefits. Through case studies like the Lacandon Community Forest and the Maya Biosphere Reserve, I demonstrated how CBC can enhance biodiversity protection while empowering local communities.

My research involved critically examining the success of community-based conservation (CBC) through various case studies and analysis of contrasting conservation models.

Key aspects of my research process included:

  • Case Studies: Analyzing successful examples such as the Lacandon Community Forest in Mexico and the Maya Biosphere Reserve in Guatemala, which demonstrate the effectiveness of collaborative conservation efforts. These case studies highlighted the importance of Indigenous knowledge and governance in achieving long-term ecological success.
  • Examining Economic Impacts: Exploring how CBC can alleviate poverty and strengthen local economies, using the Serengeti-Mara region as a case study. I examined the negative effects of exclusionary conservation policies and how CBC fosters sustainable livelihoods through activities like eco-tourism and sustainable resource management.
  • Literature Review: Investigating scholarly sources to understand the role of community involvement in conservation and the link between Indigenous practices and biodiversity preservation.
  • Through this research, I concluded that the inclusion of Indigenous communities in conservation is essential for both ecological sustainability and social well-being. This project refined my analytical, research, and writing skills, while deepening my understanding of how community engagement contributes to successful conservation outcomes.

You can read my paper here.

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Learning Significance

  1. From this research, I gained several key insights:

    - I discovered that successful conservation is not just about preserving ecosystems but also about recognizing the rights, knowledge, and governance systems of local communities. This approach empowers communities to protect biodiversity while benefiting from it, which ensures long-term sustainability.

    - I learned how CBC can alleviate poverty and create sustainable livelihoods, especially through eco-tourism and sustainable resource management. This contrasts with the negative social impacts of exclusionary conservation policies, which often marginalize local populations and disrupt their traditional ways of life.

    - I developed stronger analytical skills by comparing different conservation models and evaluating their effectiveness. This research helped me improve my ability to assess complex environmental, social, and economic factors.