2012- 21st Annual NC State Undergraduate Research Symposium

Session Time : 4/10/12 12:15 PM - 4/10/12 1:30 PM

Content Area : Interdisciplinary Programs

Poster Appointment: NONE

Student Presenters :
Brian Christopher Parham International Cultural Studies

Mentors and/or Co-Authors :
Carol Ann Lewald Interdisciplinary Studies

Abstract Title : Community Investment and Conservation in Ecuador

Abstract :
With the global population growth, the preservation and sustainable use of the world's natural resources has only grown in importance and many countries are now funding conservation projects at a record rate. With more money invested in conservation projects, including both domestic and internationally funded projects through development aid organizations, conservation NGOs and government initiatives, it is now time to assess the effectiveness of the different strategies to aid local economies, protect natural resources and improve quality of life. Ecuador is a leading country in world conservation, with over 25% of their land holdings devoted in some aspect to conservation. Regarding natural heritage, Ecuador is home to the world's most biodiverse area-Yasuni National Park, the world-renowned Galapagos Islands, and two of Conservation International's world biodiversity hotspots-the tropical Andes and the Tumbes-Choco Magdalena corridor. This study investigates the role that community investment in conservation projects has played in the last twenty years in Ecuador. Research investigated recent conservation projects initiated by communities, NGOs and the Ecuadorian government. The purpose of the research was to determine the extent to which local people were involved in the successes and failures, with particular emphasis on methods of community involvement. It was found that projects that incorporated and utilized the opinions, efforts and values of local communities were more successful than projects that were mandated using a top-down management method. Moving forward, Ecuador and conservationists should continue to foster community development and the economic improvement of local peoples as a means towards broader conservation success.