Although comprising only 0.09% of the global land area, Nepal possesses a disproportionately large diversity of flora and fauna at genetic, species and ecosystem levels. Nepal has had long experience in wildlife conservation through different approaches. Its conservation policy has evolved from the early emphasis on species preservation and research with strict law enforcement practices, to a more conciliatory and participatory approach.
A number of community-based participatory programs have been implemented inside, outside and in the BZs of PAs. The Buffer Zone Management Model and the Landscape Approach to biodiversity conservation are successful approaches in the context of Nepal. Both approaches emphasize people’s participation in program design and implementation.
The landscape approach to biodiversity conservation aims for representation of all distinct natural communities, maintenance of ecological and evolutionary processes that create and sustain biodiversity, maintenance of viable populations of species, ecosystem resilience to large-scale disturbances and long-term changes and promotion of sustainable livelihoods. The BZ Management approach aims at making local communities self-reliant in forest products by initiating community forests and reducing biotic pressure in the core areas.
Experiences show that people’s participation is essential to sustainable conservation. It is crucial to win the support and stewardship of the local people in wildlife conservation by implementing conservation programs along with community development activities aimed at improving their socio-economic conditions. This paper reviews current participatory wildlife conservation models and programs, and emerging initiatives in Nepal.
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