Environmental Conservation and Cultural Action Available to Purchase

Now that conservation models which segregate nature from people (or nature from culture) are no longer seen as viable, we are witnessing the emergence of new approaches that acknowledge the crucial role culture plays in conservation efforts. We now know that environmental conservation is, in many cases, not only contingent on the conservation of natural resources, but also the conservation of cultural resources. Respectively, conservation strategies are increasingly being linked to issues of cultural preservation and survival. This latter goal, however, requires a broader view of the role of culture than is often taken in conservation efforts as well as the kinds of resources that can be used for these purposes. When cultural variables are taken into consideration they are often reduced to a discreet set of resources, such as indigenous knowledge and local systems of ecological protection that can be integrated into projects. But culture needs to be seen as foundational to conservation rather than just an added dimension or resource. Since culture, in all its varied forms, contributes to the construction of what people value and take concern in, it also determines, to a certain degree, how and where people will direct their energy. Therefore, we need to develop approaches that acknowledge and build on the dynamics of culture, and activities that can serve as a motivating and sustaining force in a community.