Nature conservation

This publication gives an account of the challenges currently being faced by Lao PDR - an oasis of biodiversity richness nestled amid a group of countries whose biodiversity assets have been severly depleted as a result of economic and/or population pressures - as it struggles with the options between trying to ensure the equitable economic and social development of its peoples, while using its resources sustainably and ensuring that exploitation of its resources by neighbouring countries doe

Protected areas around the globe - national parks, wildlife reserves, biosphere reserves - will prosper only if they are supported by the public, the private sector, and the full range of government agencies. Yet such support is unlikely unless society appreciates the importance of protected areas to its own interests, and protected areas are well-managed and contribute to the national welfare in a cost-effective way.

This work forms part of a preparatory phase leading to a handbook providing guidelines for the sustainable utlization and integrated management of tropical peatlands. The papers cover the resource and its conservation; social cultural and economic factors affecting utlization; forestry management approaches; case studies; and concludes with a summary of the workshop sessions focusing on future directions.

Based on information derived from literature, statistics, interviews and a field survey in Bolivia, this report explores the value of non-timber forest products not only in economic terms but also as an important element in the lives of people who live in or near the forest. Covers values at local, national and international level; intellectual property rights; ecotourism; and sustainability of exploitation with detailed examples.

Presents the most comprehensive and up-to-date information available on the 36 wild cats of the world. It includes the first published collection of detailed range maps and some of the first photographs of rare species in the wild. It provides a thorough review of major issues in cat conservation such as habitat loss and management of big cats in livestock areas; field and laboratory research; international trade; the role of zoos; and reintroduction.

As excellent examples of oceanic island ecosystems, many unmodified by human influences, these islands are of great conservation significance but adequate protection varies. The papers in this volume examine the progress made by various national authorities since the first workshop in 1986 and set out a new call for action in 35 recommendations.